LVCVA Press Releaseshttp://www.lvcva.com//press-room/press-releases/?show=rss
LVCVA Press Releasesen-usLAS VEGAS IS A SLAM DUNK FOR COLLEGE BASKETBALL FANS DURING THE 2015 NCAA MEN’S TOURNAMENTWed, 04 Mar 2015 00:00:00LAS VEGAS -It's
college basketball tournament time and Las Vegas offers the ultimate experience
for fans. From the world's largest race and sports book at Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino to a multitude of viewing
parties on and off the Strip; the destination provides the perfect backdrop for
fans to cheer on their favorite team.

Hoops & Hops, the three-day
basketball tournament celebration, will take place inside The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, from
8:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., March 19 - 21. Guests will be immersed in the competitive
excitement at The Chelsea, an event and performance space, which will be
transformed into an exclusive sports lounge. An array of gourmet stadium fare
and game-day snacks will also be available throughout the weekend. Fans should
also stop by Holstein's Shakes and Buns inside the resort. The restaurant will
serve up The Bracket Burger throughout the tournament. This specialty burger
consists of a juicy 8-ounce, dry-aged beef patty topped with American cheese, a
fried egg, firecracker onions, lettuce, tomato, avocado, spicy mustard and barbecue
sauce.

Lagasse's
Stadium at The Palazzo Las Vegas
will be packed with live viewing on 20 screens, March 19 - 22. Doors open at 9
a.m. and food specials include chilled Alaskan king crab legs, fresh shucked
oysters and a surf-n-turf tomahawk bone-in, 30-ounce rib-eye steak. Located conveniently next to The Venetian Las Vegas sports
book, B&B Burger & Beer features 16 HD TVs, a selection of 18 draft
beers and more than 50 craft and domestic bottled beers for fans to enjoy.
Tip-off packages are also available at Rockhouse, Las Vegas' ultra-dive bar at The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian Las Vegas.

Westgate Las Vegas Resort &
Casino's Hoops Central is where guests will want to be for the madness of the
college basketball finals during the first weekend. Watch the games on giant HD
screens in the Westgate Theater, while enjoying food and beverage specials,
prize giveaways and much more. The event is free and doors open at 8 a.m. Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino
is also home to the SuperBook®, a 30,000 square-foot space with more than 350
seats.

ARIAResort & Casino offers great game-day action at FIVE50, Lift
Bar and the property's Race and Sports Book. Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino has plans to keep fans cheering with
food specials at the Sports Book Grill. For the ultimate viewing party, head to
The Pub at Monte Carlo Resort and Casino.
Guests can pick from VIP packages or purchase a main floor table, while
enjoying the all-you-can-eat buffet.

The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino will
offer slam-dunk views of each action-packed game during its tournament madness viewing partiesMarch
19 - 21. Basketball fanatics can root for their favorite college teams
alongside thousands of fans with a live, high-definition stream of each matchup.

The Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino,
provide the perfect backdrop for fans looking to have a good time. Cabo Wabo
Cantina will transform into the ultimate sports hub March 17 - April 6. The
LOFT, a luxurious new event space directly above Cabo Wabo Cantina, will
feature games on multiple flat-panel, big-screen TVs including a 184-inch video
grid, a 180-inch projection screen and multiple 80-inch HD TVs. Guests can also
catch a game at Blondies Sports Bar & Grill and PBR Rock Bar, which will
offer drink and food specials.

Caesars Palace will be filled with
events to celebrate Hoops on the Strip. Models will be on property March 19 and
20 handing out basketball swag. The property also offers Pop-a-Shot Arcade Basketball
at Spanish Steps, Slice Bar, Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill and Serendipity 3.
Guests can play a solo game or compete against a friend for the highest score. Gordon
Ramsay Pub & Grill is a great place to catch all of the basketball action.
The venue will show every game on its screens and offers food and drink
specials. With 43 seats available daily March 17-22, 26-28 and April 4 and 6,
Race and Sports Book Lounge is the ultimate way to view the game with friends. Basketball
aficionados can also grab a slice and watch the games at Slice Bar March 19-22.

Basketball
fans are invited to the madness in March viewing party at the Treasure Island ballroom March 19-21.
Admission is free and the party starts at 7:30 p.m. each night.

Downtown
Las Vegas is home to multiple viewing parties with free entry, including The D Las Vegas, California Hotel and Casino and Fremont Hotel and Casino during opening weekend. Fremont Street Experience invites
college basketball fans to dribble down to the sixthannual Downtown
Hoopstown, taking place March 2 - April 6. The four blocks underneath the Viva
Vision canopy will be lined with college banners and flags as Fremont Street
Experience transforms into the ultimate college basketball destination with
special events, including nightly entertainment from the stage production show "Hardwood
Hotties," an interactive high hoops zone, the world's largest NCAA bracket and
a special basketball-themed show displayed on the 1,500 foot Viva Vision
canopy.

Fans cheering on their favorite
teams at Aliante Casino's Race &
Sports Book may take advantage of food and drink specials, March 17 - April 6.
ETA Lounge, located at the center of the casino floor, will also offer a
reverse happy hour from 10 p.m. to close.

Specials can also be found at
Pot Liquor Contemporary American Smokehouse at Town Square during select men's college basketball games. It
includes deals on Pot Liquor's signature Carolina Pulled Pork, Moinks and
specialty cocktails.

For the perfect party
snack, head to Sprinkles at The LINQ
Promenade, where fans can customize cupcakes with a variety of flavors,
basketball themed stickers and the names of their favorite coach or player.

For an easy way to get around in
the destination, use the Las Vegas Monorail. Riders can get a discount on an
unlimited weekend pass, by using the promo code MM2015.

For
the perfect way to unwind from all of the excitement, head to one of Las Vegas'
50 golf courses. Bali Hai Golf Club includes 7,000 yards of pure tropical golf
paradise, located right on the famed Las Vegas Strip. Royal Links Golf Club offers golfers a collection of the best holes from the British
Open rotation courses, featuring an authentic castle-style clubhouse.

To plan your
unforgettable trip to Las Vegas for this March, including air and hotel
packages, show tickets and more, visit www.LasVegas.com.

LAS VEGAS -The Las Vegas economy is expected to receive a multi-million dollar boost this year thanks to the addition of new convention business and the return of several rotating shows. A total of 12 new and rotating conventions and trade shows consisting of more than 10,000 delegates are scheduled in 2015. Combined, the shows will draw an estimated 242,000 attendees generating nearly $315 million in local non-gaming economic impact. Nine of these shows will be held at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC).

The American Academy of Ophthalmology's annual conference (November 14-17) and Magic: The Gathering Tournament (May 28-31) are both scheduled to take place in Las Vegas for the very first time this year. These two new shows are expected to bring an estimated 35,000 attendees generating $46 million in local non-gaming economic impact.

"Whether this is a show's first time here or it's been a while, Las Vegas is always an excellent choice for group business," said Cathy Tull, senior vice president of marketing for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA.) "Over the past few years, we've seen exciting developments in Las Vegas with new resorts, attractions and restaurants opening. Add in top-notch customer service and nearly 11 million square feet of meeting and exhibit space and it's easy to see why Las Vegas continues to be a global leader for business travel."

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) returns November 17-19 with an expected 25,000 attendees and a non-gaming economic impact of $33 million. NBAA is the leading organization for companies that rely on general aviation aircraft to help make their business more efficient, productive and successful.

Packaging Machinery Manufacturers Institute (PMMI) also rotates back to Las Vegas September 28-30 bringing an estimated 43,000 attendees and a non-gaming economic impact of $56.5 million dollars. NBAA and PMMI were both last in Las Vegas in 2013.

With more than 22,000 meetings and conventions held annually in Las Vegas, the convention industry is crucial to Southern Nevada's economy, supporting more than 61,000 jobs in the area and contributing more than $7.4 billion to the local economy. For a record 20 consecutive years, Trade Show News Network has named Las Vegas the No.1 trade show destination in North America, hosting 53 of the 250 largest trade shows in 2013. For a full list of meetings conventions and trade shows, visit www.VegasMeansBusiness.com.

LAS VEGAS -Las Vegas is once again THE place to be during the month of March. From fast cars to college hoops, convention business to Major League Baseball, visitors have an unlimited amount reasons to pack a bag and head to Las Vegas - not to mention the great weather.

Last year, more than 3.6 million people visited in March, making it the single most visited month ever. In fact, the three busiest weekends last year were in March.

"March is our busiest month of the year for visitation for a variety of reasons- there really is something for everyone this month," said Cathy Tull senior vice president of marketing for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. "Whether you are a sports fan, soaking up the sun on spring break or celebrating St. Patrick's Day, Las Vegas offers an exciting atmosphere and one-of-a-kind experience for everyone and is the perfect place to be in March."

The highly anticipated NASCAR weekend starts the month off strong with an expected 150,000 fans gathering at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway March 6-8. NASCAR is the largest sporting event in the state and is expected to generate more than $165 million in non-gaming economic impact. The races include the Xfinity Series Sam's Town 300 on Saturday and the Sprint Cup Series Kobalt 400 on Sunday.

Racing month continues with the iconic Mint 400 March 11-15, a grueling desert race that features some of the best off-road competitors in the world. The Monster Jam World Finals is a family favorite featuring the top monster truck drivers as they jump, roll and trample the competition at Sam Boyd Stadium March 26-28.

Major League Baseball takes over Cashman Field March 13-14 for what has become a springtime tradition for visitors and residents alike. The Chicago Cubs will make their 11th consecutive appearance for Big League Weekend facing the Oakland A's. More than 19,000 people are expected to attend the games.

Las Vegas is the only destination to host four NCAA basketball conference tournaments including the West Coast Conference (WCC), Western Athletic Conference (WAC), Mountain West Conference (MWC) and Pacific Athletic Conference (PAC 12). The tournaments are expected to draw more than 17,000 out-of-town visitors and generate $17 million dollars in non-gaming economic impact.

Meetings, conventions and trade shows are expected to bring more than 126,000 attendees during the month of March. Las Vegas will host six major shows including ASD Las Vegas, Ace Hardware Corporation and International Pizza Expo at the Las Vegas Convention Center, Wedding & Portrait Photographers Conference Expo at MGM Grand, Globalshop at Mandalay Bay and American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons at the Sands Expo. Combined, these six shows will generate more than $166 million in non-gaming economic impact.

And finally, March will end with college basketball fans flocking to Las Vegas to watch the NCAA College Basketball Tournament. The first weekend of the tournament is consistently one of the busiest weekends each year.

Las Vegas welcomed a record 41.1 million visitors in 2014. Special events like these help increase the visitor base and grow the tourism industry. Tourism remains our leading economic driver sustaining nearly half of all jobs in Southern Nevada and generating $45 billion in local economic impact a year.

Las Vegas, NV--- The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) Board of Directors voted today to approve a contract for the purchase of the historic Riviera Hotel & Casino's 26-acre site as the cornerstone for its planned Las Vegas Global Business District.

"Today marks an exciting new milestone in Las Vegas' long history of reinvention and evolution and ensures Las Vegas' meeting and convention industry remains the envy of the world for decades to come," said Rossi Ralenkotter, president/CEO of the LVCVA. "The Las Vegas Global Business District is the single most important economic development project in the state, and it will generate thousands of good-paying jobs and help lay a strong economic foundation for the benefit of the entire community. This strategic acquisition of land gives us the much-needed space for expansion while also providing a highly visible presence on one of the most famous streets in the world - the Las Vegas Strip - and is essential in helping us to reach our goal of 45 million visitors."

Under the agreement, the LVCVA will purchase the site for a total of $182.5 million. Funds for the acquisition will be drawn from the LVCVA's bank credit facility with JPMorgan. The LVCVA will issue long-term bonds to retire the bank credit within the next two years. Terms of these bonds will follow the standard public bonding process.

Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval said, "Las Vegas has proven time and again, its ability to reinvent itself as the economic engine for Southern Nevada. For the better part of 60 years, this historic property has created memories for millions of guests and will always have a place in the history of this great city. As the storied resort makes way for the Global Business District, this site will continue to play an integral role in the attraction of visitors to Nevada."

The Las Vegas Global Business District is projected to bring 6,000 construction-period jobs to Southern Nevada, and the construction portion alone is projected to generate $3.6 billion in economic activity. When the project is complete, the resulting increase in economic activity could sustain up to 6,000 permanent jobs and generate an estimated incremental economic impact of nearly $700 million and $221 million in wages and salaries.

The $2.3 billion project is the largest economic development initiative the LVCVA has undertaken since the Las Vegas Convention Center was originally built in the late 1950s. The expansion project is expected to lead to an additional 480,000 new attendees as current conventions grow and through attracting an estimated 20 new trade shows and conventions.

The Riviera site is a key component of the LVCVA's land acquisition strategy, providing an iconic entrance to the Global Business District on the world-famous Las Vegas Strip. Envisioned to be completed in two phases, the first phase focuses on the Riviera site and includes 750,000 square feet of new exhibit space and 187,500 square feet of supporting meeting space as part of the new 1.8-million-square-foot expansion.

Phase two focuses on renovating the existing convention center and includes a 100,000-square-foot general session space and another 100,000 square feet of meeting space. Including public areas and service areas, the expansion and renovation increase the facility from its current total footprint of 3.2 million square feet to nearly 5.7 million square feet. Once construction begins, the entire project is expected to take five to eight years to complete.

The owners and management of the Riviera Hotel & Casino have notified its employees and their union representatives of the agreement and are working with resort partners and the unions in identifying alternative employment options.

"We recognize the long-standing history and loyalty that many of our associates have demonstrated to the Riviera throughout the years. Tasked with handling the logistics of winding down the operation, we will focus our attention on the approximate 1,000 associates and many guests who have visited the property year after year. We will activate multiple resources and channels to assist in making a smooth transition for all those impacted," said John Groom, Chief Operating Officer of Paragon Gaming, the management company for the Riviera Hotel & Casino.

"This is clearly an exciting opportunity for Las Vegas as a destination, and we wish nothing but success to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority as they look at ushering in a new era at this site," said Rob Kunkle, President and General Manager of the Rivera Hotel & Casino.

In addition to the $2.3 billion convention center expansion and renovation, the Las Vegas Global Business District is a visionary project that includes developing a district concept in the neighborhoods surrounding the center. The district would provide a distinct look and feel to the area and provide the opportunity for economic development related to the industry, including the development of a global business center that utilizes the facility's World Trade Center designation to attract corporations wanting to interact with the tens of thousands of businesses who visit the convention center each year.

The Global Business District also includes plans for a centralized transportation hub that would be the centerpiece to a new transportation plan for the entire city. The LVCVA is working closely with the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada and transportation authorities and companies to develop a more efficient and expanded transportation system in the valley.

The Las Vegas Convention Center currently hosts approximately 1.2 million convention delegates each year. Those visitors and the conventions they attend support 14,000 local jobs, sustain $530 million in wages, and generate an annual economic impact of $1.7 billion.

Journalists and news organizations can access renderings and video of the Las Vegas Global Business District as well as photos and HD video of Las Vegas events on the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority's media center at www.thenewsmarket.com/LVCVA.

LAS VEGAS - Las Vegas welcomed a record 41.1 million visitors in 2014, approximately 1.4 million more visitors than the previous high of 39.7 million set in 2012.

The 2014 year-end statistics, released today by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA), point to continued recovery for Las Vegas tourism with increases in all of the key visitation indicators. Las Vegas tourism generates more than $45 billion in economic impact for the local economy and supports 376,000 local jobs.

"Breaking the 40 million visitor mark has been a goal of ours, and reaching beyond that to more than 41 million is a testament to the hard work of our resort partners and everyone who works in the industry," said Rossi Ralenkotter, president/CEO of the LVCVA. "Tourism drives our local economy, and the growth in recent years is a positive sign for both the industry and our community. With more than $9 billion in recent and planned developments, we are poised to continue that growth and march toward our next goal of 45 million visitors in the coming years."

Other year-end highlights:

• The meetings and convention industry reached a six-year high with nearly 5.2 million delegates attending a convention, trade show or meeting in 2014, reflecting a 1.2 percent increase over last year. This is the highest convention attendance since 2008.

• Las Vegas hosted 22,103 meetings, trade shows or conventions in 2014, up slightly from the 2013. The 2014 total is also the highest number of meetings and conventions held in Las Vegas since 2008.

• Average citywide occupancy grew 2.4 percentage points to 86.8 percent for 2014. Las Vegas' citywide occupancy is 22 percentage points higher than the national average of 64.1 percent. With industry-leading occupancy for its 150,544 rooms, Las Vegas fills more rooms per night on average than any destination in North America.

• Clark County gross gaming revenue reached nearly $9.6 billion in 2014, a 1.2 percent decrease from 2013. For Downtown Las Vegas, gaming revenue was up 2.1 percent for a total of $511 million last year while revenues decreased 2.1 percent to nearly $6.4 billion on the Las Vegas Strip.

Another positive indicator for Southern Nevada's tourism industry is the addition of nearly 21,000 jobs in the resort industry since the recessionary low in November 2009. Tourism supports 46 percent of all local jobs.

Additional information regarding Las Vegas 2014 visitors will be available later this spring when the LVCVA releases its annual Visitor Profile Study, detailing visitor trends, attitudes, behaviors and spending habits while visiting the destination.

]]>http://www.lvcva.com///article/las-vegas-sets-record-for-visitation:-41-million-visitors-in-2014/996/
http://www.lvcva.com/article/las-vegas-slam-dunk-college-basketball/1002/
http://www.lvcva.com//press-room/press-releases/?show=rss
LVCVA Press Releasesen-usVegas Votes! Community Invited to Vote on Favorite Las Vegas News Bureau PhotosWed, 21 Jan 2015 00:00:00
LAS VEGAS - What image pops in your mind when you think of Las Vegas? Is it the neon lights of the Strip or the fast cars racing at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway? Maybe a scenic view of Red Rock Canyon or the dazzle of Downtown?

The Las Vegas News Bureau invites the public to share in the area's rich photographic history by voting for their favorite photographs in "Vegas Votes."

Classic and current images have been separated into ten categories: Scenic Nevada, Entertainment, Sports, Neon Nights, Showgirls, Historic Las Vegas, The Las Vegas Strip, Marquees, Weddings and Fremont Street. Individuals can vote for the best overall image and a favorite photo in each category.

From now until February 4, 2015, voting will be open during regular library hours at the Sahara West Library located at 9600 West Sahara Ave. The winning photographs will be the featured exhibit in "The Studio" at the Sahara West Library later this year. The selected images will then tour the Las Vegas-Clark County Library District galleries throughout 2015-2016.

ABOUT THE LAS VEGAS NEWS BUREAU
For more than 65 years, the Las Vegas News Bureau has captured the sights and sounds of the world's leading destination like no one else, and has played a unique role in promoting Las Vegas by documenting unforgettable images on film. The News Bureau was created in 1947 as part of the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce's marketing efforts to promote Las Vegas as a tourism destination. It was not long before the Bureau's photographers were shooting entertainers backstage, on stage, or staging photos with Harpo Marx, Mickey Rooney, or Frank Sinatra. These images were transmitted around the world, and helped drive the publicity machine for Las Vegas.

The News Bureau evolved into a true resource for journalists, generating news releases and assisting with press trips, as well as providing photography. Over the years, the News Bureau has amassed one of the most comprehensive photographic and video collections showcasing the history of Las Vegas. Today, the Las Vegas News Bureau plays an important role in supporting the marketing efforts of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. While our primary function is to work with the news media, we share our collection with the public through community exhibitions.

ABOUT THE CLARK COUNTY LIBRARY DISTRICT
The award-winning Las Vegas-Clark County Library District is a $60 million independent taxing entity that serves 1.5 million people over 8,000 square miles. Through its 25 branch libraries, the District reaches the urban and suburban communities of the Las Vegas Valley, as well as small and medium-sized towns throughout Clark County and remote rural areas. The branches offer 2.3 million books, audio, video and digital resources, as well as free programs including author visits, music and dance, children's activities, computer classes and workshops. The Library District's website offers easy access to a wide array of electronic resources including downloadable eMedia and free homework help. The Library District is a vibrant and vital member of the community with committed staff that work to provide information and the opportunity for lifelong learning, cultural awareness and basic literacy.

Boyd Group International, a leading aviation research, forecast and consulting firm, is bringing the conference back to Las Vegas after a record-setting 2014 Summit which attracted more than 600 airline and airport executives and other leaders from the aviation industry to the destination.

"We are delighted to bring the Summit again to Las Vegas," noted Michael Boyd, president of the Colorado-based aviation consulting firm. "This event is focused on futurist planning and innovative thinking. That certainly is also a description for Las Vegas, which makes it the perfect venue for this event."

This year's Boyd Group International Aviation Forecast Summit will highlight current issues facing the aviation industry, including traffic forecasts that will impact the future of aviation, global airline fleet demand, and aviation industry trends. The Summit's unique discussion format allows attendees to interact with industry CEOs and high level executives. The event is co-hosted by Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) and Las Vegas McCarran International Airport.

"We are excited to welcome this important aviation event back for what we know will be another successful year," said Rossi Ralenkotter, President/CEO of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. "Travel to Las Vegas continues to grow, particularly internationally, and Las Vegas remains the perfect setting to discuss the future of the industry while also showcasing the many reasons why Las Vegas means business."

New this year is the China-US Aviation Opportunities Symposium, a pre-Summit event which will focus on industry opportunities as trade and traffic continues to expand between the two nations, particularly after the U.S. and China agreed last year to extend the validity of short-term tourist and business visas to ten years.

"China is now the largest single economy in the world, and we believe Las Vegas is the perfect venue for an event to explore new aviation opportunities it represents," Boyd said.
For more information or to register for the 20th Annual International Aviation Forecast Summit, please visit http://www.aviationforecastsummit.com.

About Boyd Group International
Founded in 1984, Boyd Group International has emerged as a leader in aviation forecasting and research, and provides top-level consulting assistance to airports, airlines, financial institutions and aircraft manufacturers. The International Aviation Forecast Summit annually brings together top CEOs and executives from all areas of the global industry to explore and discuss the emerging trends that will shape the future. In addition to incisive discussion sessions with aviation decision-makers, the Summit delivers cutting-edge forecasts, including passenger projections, aircraft demand by region, and financial shifts. For insight on Boyd Group International, log on to www.AviationForecastSummit.com or www.AviationPlanning.com.

About LVCVA
The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) is charged with marketing Southern Nevada as a tourism and convention destination worldwide, and also with operating the Las Vegas Convention Center and Cashman Center. With nearly 150,000 hotel rooms in Las Vegas alone and nearly 11 million square feet of meeting and exhibit space citywide, the LVCVA's mission centers on attracting ever increasing numbers of leisure and business visitors to the area. For more information, go to www.lvcva.com or www.lasvegas.com.

About McCarran International Airport

McCarran International Airport is the world's gateway to Las Vegas, serving nearly half of Southern Nevada's approximately 40 million annual visitors. McCarran annually ranks among the world's busiest airports, handling more than 41.8 million arriving and departing passengers in calendar 2013. McCarran recently opened its $2.4 billion Terminal 3 expansion, which greatly expanded its ability to welcome direct international air service with additional gates, hold rooms and ticketing areas, as well as a larger U.S. Customs and Border Protection port of entry. For more information, please visit www.mccarran.com

Clark County Commissioner Lawrence Weekly was named Chairman of the Board, making him the LVCVA Board's 20th chair to serve since 1955. Commissioner Weekly is the first African-American to serve as the LVCVA's Board Chairman.

"As a native Las Vegan, I have watched our community grow into a leading leisure and business destination known around the world," said Chairman Weekly. "I feel blessed and honored to serve as the Chairman of the LVCVA given the critical work the Authority does to ensure Southern Nevada's tourism industry continues to thrive, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs and injecting billions of dollars into our local economy."

Chuck Bowling, president and chief operating officer of Mandalay Bay, was selected as Vice-Chair. Bill Noonan, senior vice president of industry and government affairs for Boyd Gaming Corporation, serves as Secretary. Tom Jenkin, global president for Caesars Entertainment, remains Treasurer.

LVCVA Board officer elections are held in odd numbered years. The term of office for all officers is two years.

Photos of the new officers are available upon request.

]]>http://www.lvcva.com///article/lvcva-board-of-directors-elects-officers/993/
http://www.lvcva.com/article/las-vegas-slam-dunk-college-basketball/1002/
http://www.lvcva.com//press-room/press-releases/?show=rss
LVCVA Press Releasesen-usICSC's RECon Stays In Las VegasTue, 13 Jan 2015 00:00:00
LAS VEGAS - The International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) will continue to call Las Vegas home for its annual trade show RECon for another two years with the option for a three-year extension.

"This announcement is further proof that Las Vegas remains a global leader in tradeshows and conventions," said Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval. "I would like to congratulate Rossi Ralenkotter and the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority on this exciting announcement and thank them for their tireless work attracting the best to the Silver State and setting the bar for excellence in the travel and tourism industry. I would also like to thank the International Council of Shopping Centers for selecting Nevada, once again, as home to one of the premier events for the shopping center industry."

The new contract begins in 2018 to potentially 2022, if the extension is exercised. Over the full five years and based on today's conservative estimates, RECon could generate nearly $225 million in non-gaming economic impact for Southern Nevada.

"This was a very competitive process, and Las Vegas rose to the challenge with our resort partners working together to show why we are the No. 1 trade show destination in North America and how we intend to stay on top through continual reinvention and the development of the Las Vegas Global Business District," said Rossi Ralenkotter, president/CEO for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA). "We appreciate ICSC's long-standing commitment to Las Vegas and their role in supporting thousands of local jobs and contributing more than $1 billion into the local economy over the years, helping to fund schools, roads and parks."

RECon is the global convention for the shopping center industry attracting more than 34,000 attendees and 1,000 exhibitors from around the world to the Las Vegas Convention Center every year. The trade show was first held in Las Vegas in 1976. Since then, RECon has generated more than $1 billion in non-gaming economic impact for the Las Vegas economy and brought almost 900,000 attendees to the destination. It is the world's largest gathering of shopping center executives.

"We are excited to keep RECon in Las Vegas, where it has been every year since 1986," said Tim McGuinness, vice president of global trade expositions, ICSC. "We look forward to continuing to work with the LVCVA to ensure that our members and attendees have the greatest conference experience possible."

The 2015 RECon show will be held May 17-20, 2015, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. ICSC's current contract runs through 2017. Future shows are expected to be held in the new exhibit halls of the $2.3 billion Las Vegas Global Business District, the largest economic development initiative the LVCVA has undertaken since the Las Vegas Convention Center was originally built in the late 1950s.

With more than 22,000 meetings and conventions held annually in Las Vegas, the convention industry is crucial to Southern Nevada's economy, supporting more than 61,000 jobs in the area and contributing more than $7.4 billion to the local economy. For a record 20 consecutive years, Trade Show News Network has named Las Vegas the No.1 trade show destination in North America, hosting 53 of the 250 largest trade shows in 2013.

LAS VEGAS - Las Vegas reached a historic milestone, exceeding 40 million visitors for the first time. The tourism industry in Southern Nevada continues to expand, achieving ten consecutive months of visitor volume increases, with many of those months being the best on record.

The "Entertainment Capital of the World" has surpassed its record for annual visitation, drawing more than 40 million people with two weeks remaining of the calendar year. Current pacing suggests the destination could approach nearly 41 million visitors by the end of the year. The previous record was set in 2012 with more than 39,727,000 tourists.

"Las Vegas couldn't have reached this milestone without the continued investments of our resort partners, and the more than 40 million people who came to experience all the destination has to offer," said Rossi Ralenkotter, president/CEO of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA). "Ongoing developments in the destination, including new, renovated and rebranded resort properties, exciting new attractions, world-class entertainment, incredible culinary offerings and more are what keep first-time visitors and loyalists returning to Las Vegas time and time again."

Las Vegas has seen an increase in direct international air service in 2014 with Canada and Mexico proving to be instrumental to visitation growth.

Tourism plays a vital role in the economy of Southern Nevada and the Las Vegas Valley generating more than $45 billion annually and supporting 376,000 local jobs.

To celebrate the 40 million visitor milestone, as only Las Vegas can, the destination created a series of priceless, ‘Only in Vegas' experiences and surprised unsuspecting visitors with Las Vegas entertainers, including Penn and Teller, Carrot Top and Claire Sinclair, presenting the one-of-a-kind experiences. The giveaway items included: incredible suite upgrades at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and Palms Las Vegas, dinner for four at CRUSH eat, drink, love at MGM Grand Hotel & Casino, thrill-seeking SkyJump experiences at Stratosphere Casino, Hotel & Tower, VIP beauty makeovers at Michael Boychuck's COLOR Salon at Caesars Palace and much more.

The narrative follows the journey of lead male and female characters as they spend the day crossing paths with their appearances evolving at each location. The lead characters come together at the end of the commercial as Imagine Dragons performs their latest single, "I Bet My Life." The destination was eager to work with the Las Vegas quartet on the pop-culture entrenched campaign as it continues to elevate Las Vegas as the "Entertainment Capital of the World."

"We were incredibly excited to partner with Las Vegas on this campaign," said Dan Reynolds, lead singer of Imagine Dragons. "Las Vegas is our home and our band will always be grateful for the support the city has given us over the years."

In the current campaign, Las Vegas celebrates the over-the-top experiences and activities that can be found throughout the city, and make Las Vegas unlike any other destination in the world. "Transformation" was directed by Jamie Rafn, whose previous credits include work for Visa and T-Mobile.

"Transformation puts a spotlight on the autonomy Las Vegas offers visitors to be who they want to be," said Cathy Tull, senior vice president of marketing for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA). "For Las Vegas, working with Imagine Dragons, a band our city has watched flourish, was an unforgettable experience."

To extend the "Transformation" reach, Las Vegas partnered with content creator and digital influencer Meagan Cignoli to produce custom ‘transformation' videos. Cignoli, an industry leader named as one of the "Top 10 Stop-Motion Artists on Vine" by Adweek, has also created content for brands including: Coca-Cola, Tiffany & Co., Mercedes Benz and Samsung. The videos will be shared on Las Vegas' official Instagram, Vine, Facebook and Twitter accounts.

To further extend this effort, Las Vegas will partner with YouTube influencers to create tutorials for consumers to learn how to create their own ‘Transformation look,' which will be shared out in the New Year. Pinterest will also be a key platform where Las Vegas will provide female consumers tips and tricks for trendy looks to allow them to experience the destination in style.

The widely popular "What Happens Here, Stays Here" campaign embraces adult freedom and positions Las Vegas as an unassuming and welcoming destination. Every year, millions of visitors seek sanctuary in Las Vegas as the place where everyone is able to be who they want to be. In 2014, Las Vegas is expected to welcome more than 40 million visitors, a record high for the destination.

LAS VEGAS -For 30 years now, thousands of rodeo fans decked out in cowboy boots, hats and jeans have invaded Las Vegas during the month of December. To celebrate three decades of the most exciting Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR) moments in Las Vegas, the Las Vegas News Bureau is unveiling its newest multi-media exhibit.

It was 1984 when Las Vegas tourism officials recognized that the NFR could be a lucrative event attracting visitors during a month that was traditionally slow. It would also put Las Vegas in the national spotlight as a destination that could host a major sporting event like no other city. The legendary partnership between Las Vegas and the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) was formed 30 years ago and has proven to be a successful team over the decades.

"The NFR is an important part of Las Vegas history," said Rossi Ralenkotter, president/CEO of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA). "Over the past 30 years, more than one million people have traveled to Las Vegas to experience the energy and excitement of the rodeo. It's fascinating to look back over the decades and see how both the sport and the destination have evolved. Thanks to the Las Vegas News Bureau, we have been able to capture those historical moments and preserve them for generations to come."

The Las Vegas News Bureau is commemorating the 30-year milestone with a multi-media exhibition and several other displays featuring historical images and video in the common areas of the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC). The displays features action photos of competition, a timeline of the history of the rodeo, vintage video highlights, and major achievements that happened here. The exhibition is free and open to the public during regular business hours.

While visiting the NFR exhibition, rodeo fans can also take advantage of the Cowboy Christmas Gift Show & Cowboy FanFest at the convention center. Both of these events are also free and open to the public.

"The Cowboy Christmas Gift Show, the only official gift show the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, and Cowboy FanFest at the Las Vegas Convention Center offer local rodeo fans a chance to reacquaint with the Western lifestyle," said Pat Christenson, president of Las Vegas Events. "Cowboy FanFest adds an interactive element to the rodeo experience and allows fans to 'Connect to Your Inner Cowboy' through live music and entertainment, specialty food and beverage, a full rodeo arena, rodeo exhibits and much more."

The Cowboy Christmas Gift Show and Cowboy FanFest will be open daily 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. from December 4-13, 2014 at the LVCC.

Journalists and news organizations can access hi-resolution images of the Wrangler NFR as well as photos and HD video of other Las Vegas events on the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority's media center at www.thenewsmarket.com/LVCVA. For additional photos and b-roll, contact the LVCVA News Bureau at news@lvcva.com or 702-735-3611.

ABOUT THE LAS VEGAS NEWS BUREAU
For more than 65 years, the Las Vegas News Bureau has played unique role in promoting Las Vegas by documenting unforgettable images on film. Over the years, the News Bureau has amassed one of the most comprehensive photographic and video collections showcasing the history of Las Vegas. The archive includes superstar entertainers and sports figures, world-class concerts and special events, and the ever-evolving skyline. Classic images include "Miss Atomic Bomb" and the classic "Floating Craps Game" shot at the Sands in1953, as well as video of Elvis Presley, Liberace, the Rat Pack and other Las Vegas icons. Today, the Las Vegas News Bureau plays an important role in supporting the marketing efforts of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. While its primary function is to work with the news media, the News Bureau shares its collection with the public through community exhibitions. Portions of the News Bureau's archive can be viewed year round in the Las Vegas Convention Center and at local libraries and public buildings during scheduled exhibitions.

ABOUT THE LVCVA
The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) is charged with marketing Southern Nevada as a tourism and convention destination worldwide, and also with operating the Las Vegas Convention Center and Cashman Center. With more than 150,000 hotel rooms in Las Vegas alone and almost 11 million square feet of meeting and exhibit space citywide, the LVCVA's mission centers on attracting ever increasing numbers of leisure and business visitors to the area. For more information, go to www.lvcva.com or www.lasvegas.com.

LAS VEGAS - Las Vegas is the ultimate destination to bring in the New Year with stellar experiences across the Strip and beyond. The destination will host one of the largest pyrotechnic fireworks shows in the world along with unparalleled nightclub parties and concerts by A-list performers and decadent culinary offerings from remarkable chefs. There is something for everyone looking to kick-off 2015 in Las Vegas.

FIREWORKS DISPLAYS

With a number of fireworks displays on and off the Strip, Las Vegas will absolutely ring in the New Year with a bang.

The world-famous Las Vegas Strip will be home to a stunning fireworks display launching from the rooftops of seven iconic resorts, including MGM Grand Hotel & Casino, ARIA Resort & Casino, Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, Caesars Palace, Treasure Island (TI), The Venetian Las Vegas and Stratosphere Casino, Hotel & Tower. The highly anticipated America's Party is hosted by Las Vegas Events (LVE) and Las Vegas with the fireworks display produced by world-renowned Fireworks by Grucci of New York. The eight minute and 12 second show will light up the night's sky with more than 88,000 fireworks.

The High Roller, the world's tallest observation wheel, at The LINQ Promenade offers a 360-degree view of the destination's fabulous fireworks displays on New Year's Eve. Visitors can purchase VIP cabins that begin loading at 10:30 p.m. and will be at a standstill for the displays at midnight.

CONCERTS & ENTERTAINMENT

The "Entertainment Capital of the World" is sure to delight all visitors with the seemingly endless amount of special performances scheduled to celebrate 2015.

Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga take the stage together for the first time in Las Vegas at The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. The dynamic duo will perform music from the recently released album, Cheek to Cheek, at 7 p.m. on Dec. 30 and 9 p.m. on Dec. 31.

Britney Spears is back on Dec. 30 and 31 at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Beginning at 9 p.m., fans will experience their favorite songs during the sexy, action-packed resident show, Britney: Piece of Me.

Guests can kick-off the New Year's celebrations with a hilarious performance by Katt Williams on Dec. 30, at The Joint inside Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. On Dec. 31, concert-goers can rock out alongside Sevendust as the band performs a heavy metal set at Vinyl, also inside Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

American GRAMMY® award-winning hip-hop trio, The Roots, will return to Brooklyn Bowl Las Vegas at The LINQ Promenade. The show begins at 9 p.m. on Dec. 31, Jan. 2 and Jan. 3.

Perched high above Las Vegas Boulevard, The Ice Rink at Boulevard Pool at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas offers guests a unique way to ring in 2015. Attendees can lace up their ice skates and enjoy breathtaking views of midnight fireworks and music by DJ Atom E. Doors open at 8 p.m. on Dec. 31 and the party continues until 1 a.m.

NIGHTLIFE

Party-goers can dance the night away as the world's leading DJs keep the celebration going well into the New Year.

LiFE Nightclub at SLS Las Vegas will celebrate the start of 2015 with renowned producer/DJ Steve Angello. The crowd will ring in the New Year to Angello's biggest hits for an unparalleled musical experience. Foxtail Nightclub, also at SLS Las Vegas, welcomes singer/songwriter Robin Thicke on Dec. 31 for a special New Year's Eve event.

Hyde Bellagio at Bellagio will celebrate New Year's Eve in style as GRAMMY® award-winning singer, songwriter and producer, Miguel, takes the stage for a performance on Dec. 31.

Hip-hop heavy-hitter, Drake, will deliver a special performance on Dec. 31 at Marquee Nightclub at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. The evening includes a celebratory champagne toast at midnight, premium open bar from 9 to 11 p.m. and hors d'oeuvres from 9 p.m. to midnight.

Drai's Nightclub at The Cromwell welcomes global musical sensation, Iggy Azalea, to rock the Strip with a live concert on Dec. 31. Drai's Nightclub is a 65,000 square-foot rooftop venue overlooking the Strip and a great location for a unique view of Las Vegas' fireworks displays.

Snoop Dogg will grace the stage at TAO Nightclub inside The Venetian Las Vegas on Dec. 31. The musical legend will host a special New Year's Eve edition of The Snoopadelic Cabaret. Guests can enjoy hors d'oeuvres from 9 p.m. to midnight and indulge in a premium open bar from 9 to 11 p.m.

GRAMMY-nominated producer and rapper, DJ Khaled, will host the New Year's Eve festivities at LAVO Lounge at The Palazzo Las Vegas. Attendees will be treated to a premium open bar from 9 to 11 p.m., hors d'oeuvres from 9 p.m. to midnight and a celebratory champagne toast at midnight.

International DJ and producer, Zedd, returns to XS Nightclub at Wynn Las Vegas for a one-of-a-kind New Year's celebration on Dec. 31. Resident DJ Lil Jon will also take to the turntables on Dec. 31 at Surrender Nightclub at Encore at Wynn Las Vegas. Three Ultimate VIP packages are available that include everything from a dinner tasting menu at the adjoining Asian dining hot spot, Andrea's, and midnight countdown with Lil Jon in the DJ booth.

Located more than 800 feet above the Las Vegas Strip is Top of the World restaurant at Stratosphere Hotel, Casino and Tower. Executive Chef Rick Giffen has prepared a one-of-a-kind, five-course menu to ring in the New Year with items such as: braised beef short rib with star anise reduction, lobster bisque with lemon mascarpone cream and a dessert extravaganza.

B&B Ristorante at The Venetian Las Vegas and CARNEVINO Italian Steakhouse at The Palazzo Las Vegas are celebrating the year's end with special "End of 2014" menus. The special menus were created by Chef Jason Neve and embody the Italian tradition of family-style feasts.

Before the clock strikes midnight, revelers are encouraged to stop by N9NE Steakhouse at Palms Casino Resort. Executive Chef Barry Dakake has developed an exceptional menu, including tender Japanese Kobe beef tenderloin, scrumptious Alaskan king crab gnocchi and more. The celebrations continue at Palms Casino Resort at Michelin-starred Alizé. Diners can delight over two exquisite prix fixe menu options, created by Chef de Cuisine Mark Purdy, while taking in breathtaking 280-degree panoramic views of the Strip. Chef Kerry Simon's special New Year's Eve menu at Simon Restaurant & Lounge at Palms Place offers a unique concentration of the freshest seasonal items and quality organic ingredients, all available a la carte. Also at Palms Casino Resort is NOVE Italiano located atop the Fantasy Tower. With three different price points and seating times, Chef de Cuisine Kieran Toivonen has prepared a decadent prix fixe menu that is sure to be a holiday highlight.

TREVI inside The Forum Shops at Caesars will celebrate New Year's Eve by offering an Italian five-course prix fixe meal available exclusively on Dec. 31. A festive Champagne sorbetti will also be served for a limited time during the last week of December.

Visitors can experience an unforgettable New Year's meal in a fun, chic environment at CRUSH at MGM Grand Hotel & Casino on Dec. 31. CRUSH offers visitors the choice between a four-course menu available from 5 to 7:30 p.m., or a five-course dinner served from 7:30 to 11 p.m. Optional wine paring and sommelier selections are also available.

Restaurants inside Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino will also partake in the New Year festivities. STRIPSTEAK, Fleur by Hubert Keller, Charlie Palmer's Aureole, Bayside Buffet and Ri Ra are offering special coursed menus and holiday extravaganzas.

TRANSPORTATION

Getting around the Strip is easy with The Las Vegas Monorail. While New Year's Eve is one of the busiest times of the year and the famed boulevard is closed to automobile transportation, the Monorail provides convenient connections to major Strip destinations for hassle-free transit. Visitors can purchase a special pass, valid Dec. 27 to Jan. 1. Riders should use promo code NYE2014 when purchasing tickets at any Monorail customer service ticketing office, online at tickets.lvmonorail.com or at any eTicket kiosk.

LAS VEGAS - Las Vegas transforms into a winter wonderland to celebrate the holiday season by creating magical moments for every visitor. Traditions run deep in the destination with holiday décor and displays, ice skating rinks and snow flurries.

Holiday Lights
Downtown Las Vegas kicks-off the holiday season when Mayor Goodman and Santa Claus light Las Vegas' official Christmas tree on Dec. 9 at 5 p.m. The tree will be brilliantly decorated and shine brightly below the 12.5 million lights of the Viva Vision Canopy. The annual Grand Menorah Lighting Ceremony will take place Dec. 16 at 4 p.m. The Grand Menorah will be lit by Mayor Carolyn G. Goodman and on display through the holiday season at the Fremont Street Experience.

The Venetian gets into the holiday spirit with a 65-foot tall Italian-inspired holiday tree that's located at Doge's Palace. This beautiful tree is adorned with 50,000 programmable LED lights and 5,000 ornaments. Inside, the Waterfall Atrium & Gardens at The Palazzo offers an elaborate show-stopping winter display, a creation of The Palazzo's award-winning horticulture team. The winter gardens feature white poinsettias accented with champagne, gold and green. Ice branches and 20-foot frosted birch, pine and glittering trees also complement the picturesque scene.

Bellagio will unveil its winter display Dec. 4 at Bellagio's Conservatory & Botanical Gardens. Guests can admire the decorations that include more than 28,000 fresh poinsettias. A 42-foot-tall holiday tree will stand as the focal point of the display and will be decorated with 7,000 warm white LED lights and 2,500 ornaments. Two 12-foot-tall snow globes will sit at the base of the tree. Across the Conservatory, animated penguins will build igloos around a stage where live performances fill the air with sounds of the season nightly. The Fountains of Bellagio will also add eight holiday songs to its daily performances, beginning Nov. 28. Some of the songs include Hallelujah Chorus, Carol of the Bells, O Holy Night, Santa Baby and Sleigh Ride.

The horticulture team at Wynn Las Vegas has transformed the resort into a festive landscape for all to enjoy. Guests will delight in more than 30 beautifully embellished holiday trees, 10,000 multicolored poinsettias, 33 dazzling wreaths, 2,500 feet of garland, six ornate menorahs and seasonal lighting throughout the resort.

The Ethel M Holiday Cactus Garden is open for the season through Jan. 1. The garden is lit nightly from 5 to 10 p.m. and admission to this desert spectacle is free. Guests are also invited to peek in on the Ethel M Chocolate factory which is in full swing for the holiday season.

The Las Vegas Motor Speedway hosts the 14th annual Glittering Lights through Jan. 4. The premier drive-thru light show features hundreds of displays along the 2.5-mile racetrack. The show starts nightly at 5:30 p.m.

Fashion Show Mall and Dream Works Animation take guests on a never-before-seen, magical experience with Adventure to Santa. Join Shrek and his friends as they take guests on an interactive journey to find Santa at the North Pole. This 15-minute experience is located at The Great Hall on the lower level of Nordstrom, now through Dec. 24.

Sam's Town Hotel and Gambling Hall flips the switch on its Mystic Falls Park Light and Water Show on Nov. 26 at 4:30 p.m. This winter wonderland experience also includes a 15-minute laser light show starting nightly at 5 p.m. Cowboy Santa also makes an appearance Thursday-Sunday from Nov. 27 to Dec. 21.

Underwater Santa will also take a plunge in the Silverton Hotel & Casino's 117,000 gallon aquarium. He'll pose for pictures from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. every weekend in December, leading up to Christmas.

Winter Wonderland Activities & Entertainment
Holiday revelers are invited to lace up their ice skates as The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas has once again transformed the iconic Boulevard Pool into The Ice Rink. This year it will feature a new experience on the Las Vegas Strip, snow showers. Under the blanket of falling snow, guests will experience showers throughout the evening while skating, roasting s'mores and enjoying a holiday cocktail.

The Venetian will host its culinary event of the year, Ultimo - A Weekend of Excellence, from Dec. 5-7. Featuring lavish feasts of the finest food and extraordinary experiences from an A-team of luxury brands, Ultimo will celebrate the romance of Italy and the magic of its cuisine as it unfolds around The Venetian and The Palazzo. Celebrity chefs include Daniel Boulud, Emeril Lagasse and Buddy "Cake Boss" Valastro.

Caesars Chalet will offer a traditional ice skating rink with an infusion of entertainment and special activities at Caesars Palace. Guests will ice skate over the iconic fountain in front of the property, overlooking the Las Vegas Strip. Ninety-minute skating sessions and extended passes are available along with seasonal food and beverages.

Vocal sensations and Vegas headliners Human Nature will perform a brand new show Christmas, Motown and More for 12 dates at The Venetian this holiday season, starting Dec. 12, through Christmas Eve.

The Smith Center for the Performing Arts will deck its halls with festival performances this holiday season. Nevada Ballet Theatre presents its annual production of The Nutcracker from Dec. 13-21. This year's cast features more than 100 dancers, including 60 children. Sister's Christmas Catechism: The Mystery of the Magi's Gold will take place Nov. 28 and Dec. 3-6, inside the Troesh Studio Theater. Infinitely versatile songstress Kristen Hertzenberg and critically-acclaimed pianist Philip Fortenberry return to Cabaret Jazz with Holidays from the Heart on Dec. 13.

The dynamic cast of Legends in Concert at Flamingo Las Vegas, will greet the winter season with the debut of its holiday show on Nov. 30. Guests will enjoy holiday tunes performed by both classic and modern legends like Elvis, Britney Spears, Bobby Darin, Barbara Streisand and more.

Old Saint Nick is making several stops in Las Vegas to spread holiday cheer. Guests can celebrate his arrival with a parade at Tivoli Village on Nov. 28; at 10:30 a.m. Santa will then be trading in his elves for zebra sharks and green sea turtles at Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino. Holiday patrons may visit "Santa in the Shipwreck," every Saturday and Sunday during the first three weekends of December. Santa will also be at the Luxor Hotel & Casino on Dec. 16, from 1-3 p.m. to greet guests and pose for pictures on the opulent Grand Staircase at Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition.

A trip to Opportunity Village's Magical Forest will instill the holiday spirit. Wind through the holiday tree forest bedecked with whimsical decorations with nearly three million lights, or hop on the Forest Express passenger train and Enchanted Carousel. Attractions are open through Jan. 4. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Las Vegas Great Santa Run. On Dec. 6, one of the world's largest gatherings of Santa-clad runners will take place in downtown Las Vegas, beginning at Fremont Street Experience and spanning across popular downtown venues. The Great Santa Run raises funds and awareness for Opportunity Village, which provides unparalleled opportunities to nearly 3,000 citizens with disabilities and their families throughout the Las Vegas area.

The holiday season takes on a whole new meaning with special spa treatments at Aliante Casino & Hotel. Relax with a candy cane peppermint pedicure, winter brightening facial and plum spice body therapy.

Town Square brings holiday cheer in the form of snowflakes. The flurries will fall nightly at Town Square Park until Dec. 23. An additional show will take place at 8 p.m. Friday-Sunday. Town Square Park is also home to the Holiday Nights and Lights Community Concerts on Thursday nights at 6 p.m. until Dec. 18. Kids can also get their picture taken with Santa through Christmas Eve.

Foodie Festivities
STK, the steakhouse inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, can't wait to treat guests to an unforgettable holiday menu. From sundaes that smoke to chocolate peppermint tarts, guests won't want to stop eating these festive creations once they start.

Chefs are cooking up a foodie feast at Wynn Las Vegas from Dec. 1, through Christmas Day. Choose from a variety of unique pairing tree menus at Botero, Country Club, Mizumi and Lakeside. Guests may enjoy the nog and grog holiday pop-up experience at Encore's High Limit Bar, with one-of-a-kind variations of the classic eggnog and the timeless grog beverage.

Santa Claus will make his way from the North Pole to Jean Philippe Pâtisserie at Bellagio this holiday season where he will sit in his favorite chair and welcome visitors. Made entirely out of edible treats such as chocolate, fondant and sugar icing, the Santa Claus display is sure to bring out everyone's holiday cheer.

TREVI Italian Restaurant inside The Forum Shops at Caesars will offer a festive happy
holly-tini cocktail and eggnog gelato from Dec. 1, to Christmas Day. Carmine's, also located inside the The Forum Shops, will serve up a 30-ounce Double Rib Veal Chop that is butterfly breaded and stuffed with decadent delights for Christmas Day guests.

Guests who dine at MRKT Sea & Land inside Aliante Casino can relax with a brisk and minty peppermint mocha martini that's bedazzled with chocolate syrup and a candy cane-coated rim, during the entire month of December.

Visitors on the Strip can drink and be merry at BLVD. Cocktail Company, located in the heart of The LINQ Promenade. The signature cocktails are available through Feb. 28.

Select restaurants at Treasure Island Las Vegas are offering special Christmas Day menus. Guests can dine at Seafood Shack, Phil's Italian Steakhouse, The Buffet and Gilley's while creating new holiday memories.

Downtown Las Vegas is filled with hustle and bustle this holiday season. Park on Fremont invites guests to relax while browsing their menu. A homemade meatball sandwich, Asian chicken salad and shrimp empanadas are new selections just added to the menu.

LAS VEGAS - Four of Las Vegas' largest trade shows, including No. 1* International CES®, No. 2 SEMA Show, No. 8 World of Concrete Exposition, and No. 9 ASD LV, will return to the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC). These four shows together will bring an estimated 394,000 business delegates to the destination generating nearly $518 million in non-gaming economic impact.

Fresh off a successful 2014 show, the SEMA Show will return to the convention center Nov. 3-6, 2015. The SEMA Show is part of Automotive Aftermarket Industry Week (AAIW) that brings the industry's top products and experts from all over the world to Las Vegas. An estimated 140,000 people attend AAIW generating $184 million in non-gaming economic impact.

International CES® is the largest trade show in North America. Following its January 2015 show, it will be back at the LVCC Jan. 6-9, 2016. Considered the world's premier annual innovation event featuring the latest in consumer electronics, the show moved to Las Vegas in 1978 and is expected to draw an estimated 160,000 attendees from more than 140 countries generating an economic impact of more than $210.2 million.

World of Concrete is gearing up for their largest show in more than six years with an expected 600,000+ net square feet of indoor and outdoor exhibit space and more than 1,100 exhibitors when it returns Feb. 2-5, 2015. The 2014 World of Concrete trade show and convention attracted 48,000 people generating $63.1 million in non-gaming economic impact.

Held twice a year, Associated Surplus Dealers (ASD) LV is a retail merchandise trade show bringing the world's widest variety of products together in one efficient location. ASD LV regularly draws 46,000 attendees and generates a non-gaming economic impact of $60.4 million. ASD LV next returns March 1-4, 2015.

The LVCC is the third largest convention center in the country hosting approximately 1.2 million business delegates every year and generating nearly $1.7 billion in annual economic impact for the local economy.

For a complete list of meetings, trade shows and conventions held in Las Vegas, please go to VegasMeansBusiness.com.

*Rankings based on estimated number of attendees for 2015 citywide conventions in Las Vegas.

LAS VEGAS - The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) has been honored with two national awards from the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) for its financial reporting documents.

For the 26th consecutive year, the LVCVA has received the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for its fiscal year 2015 budget presentation. The GFOA established the Budget Awards Program in 1984 to encourage and assist state and local governments to prepare budget documents of the very highest quality that reflect both the guidelines established by the National Advisory Council on State and Local Budgeting and the GFOA's best practices. According to the GFOA, the award reflects the commitment of the governing body and staff to meeting the highest principals of governmental budgeting. It is the only national awards program of its kind.

This is the seventh consecutive year the LVCVA has been honored with the Award for Outstanding Achievement in Popular Annual Financial Reporting for its fiscal year 2013 Popular Annual Financial Report (PAFR). The national Popular Annual Financial Reporting Awards Program began in 1991 to encourage and assist state and local governments to extract information from their comprehensive annual financial report to produce high quality popular annual financial reports specifically designed to be readily accessible and easily understandable to the general public and other interested parties without a background in public finance and then to recognize individual governments that are successful in achieving that goal. The GFOA acknowledged the LVCVA's creativity, presentation, understandability and reader appeal in producing the report. The PAFR can be found at www.lvcva.com.

The GFOA is a nonprofit professional association serving approximately 18,000 appointed, and elected, local state and provincial-level government officials and other finance practitioners. The association is headquartered in Chicago, IL, with offices in Washington, D.C.

LAS VEGAS - Las Vegas officially launched the first national broadcast commercial of the new "What Happens Here, Stays Here" fall campaign on Monday, Oct. 13, along with an interactive social activation.

The widely popular "What Happens Here, Stays Here" campaign embraces adult freedom and positions Las Vegas as an unassuming and welcoming destination. Every year, millions of visitors seek sanctuary in Las Vegas as the place where everyone is able to be who they want to be.

As the epicenter for office gossip, the water cooler itself is a beacon for revealing the details of an incredible Vegas vacation. In order to maintain the destination's iconic stance on keeping "What Happens Here" a secret, Las Vegas wants to stop water cooler talk by removing the temptation of water coolers.

"The creative 'Watercooler‘ concept strengthens our marquee message of What Happens Here, Stays Here," said Cathy Tull, senior vice president of marketing for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA). "As a destination, we strive to preserve the only-in-Las Vegas moments for our visitors."

To extend the "Watercooler" spot into the digital and social media realm, the spot will end with #StopWaterCoolerTalk to encourage social engagement. Las Vegas will also implement a social media activation on Friday, Oct. 17. Ideas will be crowd-sourced throughout the week from the @Vegas audience on Twitter, and the following Strip headliners have been identified to implement the various methods of water cooler destruction: Blue Man Group, Jabbawockeez, Carrot Top and Chippendales.

Statement from Las Vegas
"This is a historic day for Las Vegas and the great state of Nevada. As the "Wedding Capital of the World" and one of the top destinations for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender visitors, Las Vegas welcomes LGBT couples wishing to legally recognize their relationship. There is simply no better destination to host a fabulous wedding followed by a one-of-a-kind honeymoon."

In honor of the occasion, Las Vegas took out a full page ad in USA Today and posted congratulatory messages on social media.

Las Vegas is welcoming from one end of the Strip to the other and goes above and beyond to ensure every visitor has a memorable experience. With more than 300 sunny days a year, the destination provides the perfect backdrop for couples ready to make it official. Las Vegas offers everything from elaborate, over-the-top venues to intimate settings that will bring the most romantic dreams to life. That's why it's no surprise that nearly 100,000 marriage licenses are issued each year, for couples looking to make it official.

Additionally, this past April, the destination released a "What Happens Here, Stays Here" television commercial specifically geared toward the LGBT community. "The Check In" aired on various well-known television networks including Bravo TV, E! Entertainment Television and Logo TV.

LAS VEGAS - Couples searching for the perfect location for their destination wedding will find true happiness in Las Vegas, the "Wedding Capital of the World." With more than 300 sunny days a year, the destination provides the perfect backdrop for couples ready to tie the knot. Las Vegas offers everything from elaborate, over-the-top venues to intimate settings that will bring the most romantic dreams to life. That's why it's no surprise that 100,000 marriage licenses are issued each year, for couples looking to make it official.

Wynn Las Vegas recently unveiled its new design inside The Wedding Salon, taking inspiration from an antique sterling silver box made by Buccelatti, with a crème duchesse satin lining. It features three elegant wedding locations, including two indoor venues and a beautifully designed outdoor space for wedding ceremonies or vow renewals. In honor of the reopening, the resort created the Diamond Extravagance package, which exudes five-star luxury. The package includes custom Cartier wedding bands, a first dance choreographed by performers from Le Réve - The Dream, a private party inside XS Nightclub, and a rehearsal dinner at the award-winning Bartolotta Ristorante Di Mare, complete with a champagne toast by Chef Paul Bartolotta. The Margaux lawn, which overlooks the Wynn golf course, is where the couple will have the exclusive opportunity to host their romantic ceremony, with a customized reception to follow in one of the opulent ballrooms.

Home to two wedding chapels and several outdoor locations, Bellagio Resort & Casino offers intimate settings for couples looking for romance and beauty. The Terrace of Dreams is a popular choice and provides a stunning view of the Bellagio Fountains and its surrounding Tuscan landscape. Wedding planners will time the famous water show to begin as the couple embraces for their long-awaited first kiss.

Seal your love above Las Vegas inside the exclusive Wedding Suite at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. Purposefully designed without the traditional aisle and ceremony seating, guests stand in awe as vows are exchanged either in-suite or on the private wraparound terrace overlooking the heart of Las Vegas Boulevard. Couples can also opt for a fireside ceremony at the Boulevard Pool overlooking the Ice Rink and Las Vegas Strip during the winter season.

Become husband and wife atop the High Roller at The LINQ Promenade. The largest observation wheel in the world offers stunning views of the destination for the lucky couple and 38 guests. The High Roller is also great for a wedding reception, offering open bar inside a private cabin.

From intimate weddings to a grand affair, Caesars Palace offers multiple venues for marriages and vow renewals. The largest chapel on the Strip, holding 196 guests, can be found in the Augustus Tower. The property also has two outdoor locations, the Venus and Juno Gardens.

Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas is a non-gaming, luxury hotel on the Strip and offers several outdoor spaces that will make any ceremony memorable. Intimate outdoor ceremonies are booked on the Fountain Terrace, while the hotel's private pool and PRESS patio can also be rented for weddings and receptions. The property's Grand Staircase has become an iconic backdrop for wedding photos. The hotel is also home to the first kosher kitchen on the Strip; providing the perfect culinary creations.

The recently renovated Wedding Chapel at ARIA Resort & Casino features just one chapel to ensure exclusivity to the special couple and their guests. This venue combines sleek and modern design with lavish décor for an elegant and sophisticated experience.

Everlasting love can be sealed with a kiss at MGM Grand Hotel & Casino. Professional wedding planners help couples take a step back in time for a vintage wedding, complete with hair, makeup and dramatic lighting to mimic the ambiance of the 1940s. Those looking for an unparalleled intimate setting should consider Joël Robuchon's Parisian Terrace. This package includes a private dining room where the wedding festivities continue with a five-course dinner menu.

Wedding planners at The Venetian Las Vegas are seeing several new trends this year, including the request for a soft, elegant ceremony with antique roses, pearls and stem brooches along with hand-tied bouquets. The property offers two tranquil locations for the perfect outdoor wedding reception. Both the Venezia Courtyard and Wedding Terrace offer lush greenery and serene fountains for the perfect romantic oasis.

Say "je t'aime" a top the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas. This imitate ceremony includes the couple and their 12 closest friends and family, 460 feet above the Las Vegas Strip on the tower's observation deck. Couples can also select a guitarist or violinist to accompany their special day.

Brides looking to make a statement on their wedding day should consider the volcano package at The Mirage Hotel & Casino. Daytime weddings offer a serene tropical setting, while evening weddings bring the heat as vows are exchanged overlooking the erupting volcano and cascading waterfall. For the thrill-seekers, imagine taking the plunge at 67 miles-per-hour, while riding the coaster at New York-New York Hotel & Casino. Invite 16 family and friends to enjoy the ride of a lifetime. Other unforgettable backdrops include Mandalay Bay Beach and Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino. Couples seeking a non-traditional and truly unique experience should consider The Deuce Lounge or GOLD Boutique Nightclub and Lounge at ARIA Resort Casino.

The NEW Tropicana Las Vegas offers a tropical yet modern feel for its couples inside the resort's wedding chapel. Guests are taken to paradise with its white plantation shutters, stylish palms and dark wooden chairs. For a more elegant option, the Havana Room offers a grand chandelier and state-of-the-art technology that will set the mood for any wedding party looking for a truly luxurious experience.

Take a short drive from the Strip and you'll find 54 acres of lush gardens, waterfalls and streams at The JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort & Spa. The property boasts five formal wedding locations, both indoor and outdoor. Once the ceremony has been sealed with a kiss, guests can celebrate in one of eight reception venues. These all-inclusive wedding packages also come with a restaurant discount for rehearsal dinners.

Station Casinos offers engaged couples two amazing options to celebrate their union. CHERRY at Red Rock Resort is the prime location, located off the casino floor with access to a private pool area. This former club has been transformed into an event space, with the perfect lighting and sound system; it even includes a DJ booth. The Wedding Suite at Green Valley Ranch boasts the backdrop for couples who want to enjoy the Las Vegas skyline during their vows.

With six decades of experience, it's no surprise that couples often exchange vows at the Chapel of the Flowers. With almost an acre of cobblestone-accented grounds, this venue offers traditional, modern and elegant wedding options. The Graceland Wedding Chapel has married many celebrity couples over the years, including: Elvis Presley, Jay Leno, Johnny Depp and Billy Ray Cyrus. This chapel specializes in making your day iconic by utilizing one of four resident Elvis impersonators on staff.

Modern architectural wonder demands attention and offers the "wow" factor at the Keep Memory Alive Event Center. With proceeds going to research, treatment and clinical studies at the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, every unforgettable event will help others remember.

Escape to the mountains for breathtaking views at Las Vegas Ski & Snowboard Resort. Guests will love this outdoor setting among full Ponderosa Pines and Aspens. Ceremony and reception packages are available from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend.

Brides will be center stage with a wedding at The Smith Center for the Performing Arts in Downtown Las Vegas. The stunning art deco style creates an elegant and sophisticated backdrop, turning the special day into a true masterpiece. Other notable locations in Las Vegas include The Neon Museum and The Mob Museum, both will take guests back in time for a history lesson.

Other popular venues include TREVI Italian Restaurant and Carmine's at The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace and La Cave Wine & Food Hideaway at Wynn Las Vegas. Take marriage to new heights with a wedding package from Sundance Helicopters. Vows will be exchanged with perfect views of the Grand Canyon and Valley of Fire. Lake Las Vegas offers three properties with breathtaking views, The Westin Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa, Hilton Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa and Montelago Village Resort.

The Las Vegas Wedding Wagon comes to you to say "I do." This wedding and renewal service helps couples plan their vows at a variety of Las Vegas locations, including the Welcome Sign and Fremont Street.

Those looking for a unique way to start their marriage can book, Marriage Can be Murder, the longest running Downtown dinner show in the destination at the D Las Vegas. Bodies start dropping nightly at 6 p.m. Brides-to-be can let the Blue Man Group at Monte Carlo Resort & Casino be their "something blue." The production offers great rates for groups, special add-ons, along with dinner and show packages.

LAS VEGAS - The No. 1 trade show destination in the country introduced a study showing its plans to stay on top and boost the economy of Southern Nevada.

The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) Board of Directors was presented with the results of a feasibility study by Cordell Corporation regarding the agency's proposed Las Vegas Global Business District at their September 9 meeting. The study discussed the need and scope of an expansion and renovation of the Las Vegas Convention Center and the resulting economic boost to the city.

"This is the single most important economic development project in the state," said Rossi Ralenkotter, president/CEO of the LVCVA. "This project is a defining moment for our organization, our industry, and our city. It will take us 25 years into the future and ensure we stay ahead of our competition and remain the envy of the convention industry."

The project is the largest development project for the center since it was originally built in the late 1950s and will be done in two phases. Phase one includes 750,000 square feet of new exhibit space and 187,500 square feet of supporting meeting space as part of the total 1.8-million-square-foot expansion. Phase two focuses on renovating the existing facility and includes a 100,000-square-foot general session space and another 100,000 square feet of meeting space.

Including public areas and service areas, the expansion and renovation expand the facility from its current total footprint of 3.2 million square feet to nearly 5.7 million square feet. Once construction begins, the entire project is expected to take 5 - 8 years to complete.

The $2.3 billion project is projected to bring 6,000 construction period jobs to Southern Nevada and the construction portion alone is projected to generate $3.6 billion in economic activity. When the project is complete, the resulting increase in economic activity could sustain up to 6,000 permanent jobs and generate an estimated incremental economic impact of nearly $700 million and $221 million in wages and salaries.

"The Global Business District is a watershed moment for Southern Nevada and it's a moment that we must seize for the benefit of our entire community," Ralenkotter said. "The construction job creation, the sustained permanent job creation, the direct and induced economic impact are all things any other city or state would envy. I believe it helps to secure a strong future for our city."

The Las Vegas Convention Center currently hosts approximately 1.2 million convention delegates each year. Those visitors and the conventions they attend support 14,000 local jobs, sustain $530 million in wages, and generate an annual economic impact of $1.7 billion. The expansion project could lead to an additional 480,000 new attendees as current conventions grow and up to 20 new conventions may relocate here.

In addition to the $2.3 billion convention center expansion and renovation, the Las Vegas Global Business District is a visionary project that includes developing a district concept in the neighborhoods surrounding the center. The district would provide a distinct look and feel to the area and provide the opportunity for economic development related to the industry, including the development of a global business center that utilizes the facility's World Trade Center designation to attract corporations wanting to interact with the tens of thousands of businesses who visit the convention center each year.

The Global Business District also includes plans for a centralized transportation hub that would be the centerpiece to a new transportation plan for the entire city. The LVCVA is working closely with the Regional Transportation Commission and transportation authorities and companies to develop a more efficient and expanded transportation system in the Valley.

]]>http://www.lvcva.com///article/global-business-district-an-economic-boost-for-las-vegas/977/
http://www.lvcva.com/article/las-vegas-slam-dunk-college-basketball/1002/
http://www.lvcva.com//press-room/press-releases/?show=rss
LVCVA Press Releasesen-usENTERTAINMENT CAPITAL OF THE WORLD HEATS UP THIS FALL AND WINTER WITH LGBT SPECIAL EVENTSTue, 26 Aug 2014 00:00:00
LAS VEGAS - This fall, Las Vegas continues to welcome a wide-variety of special events and programming specific to the LGBT community. From one end of the Strip to the other, Las Vegas is unassuming and welcomes the LGBT community, providing each person the opportunity to experience the trip of a lifetime.

Show off your high-kick and high score at the Las Vegas Showgirl Invitational bowling tournament, Aug. 29-31. The event takes place at Sam's Town Hotel & Gambling Hall and includes team competition, as well as singles and doubles tournaments all weekend long. Join local bowlers and teams from across the U.S. in this fun LGBT bowling tournament during Labor
Day weekend.

Las Vegas PRIDE takes place Sept. 5-7 with a lineup of events that celebrate the diversity and pride within the Las Vegas LGBT community. Events include the annual PRIDE Night Parade on Sept. 5; the PRIDE Festival, taking place in fabulous downtown Las Vegas on Sept. 6; and a Sunday pool party at Luxor Las Vegas to close out the weekend. Celebrate your pride with members of the Las Vegas LGBT community and enjoy an exciting weekend of events, entertainment and nightlife.

For the third year in a row, Southern Nevada welcomes Gay Days Las Vegas, Sept. 2-8. This all-encompassing event features four full days of pool parties, guest DJs, a travel-retail expo and various events around town with a portion of all proceeds benefiting local non-profit organizations. This year's host hotel is Luxor Las Vegas and co-host hotel is Springhill Suites by Marriott.

During Pride weekend, lesbians take over Las Vegas for a full weekend of events at Shedonism, Sept. 4-8, at the Rumor Hotel. Hosted by DJ Lisa Pittman, along with some of the hottest female DJs, this lesbian event features day parties, nightclub experiences, comedians, showgirls, a poker tournament, and the Las Vegas Dyke march as part of the Las Vegas PRIDE parade on the evening of Sept. 5.

Come enjoy a fun-filled, unscripted weekend in Las Vegas for LuckyBear 2014, Sept. 26-29. This weekend is for bears and friends from across the U.S. and beyond. LuckyBearWeekend is complete with poolside parties and BBQs at Blue Moon Hotel for Men. The fun continues at several local LGBT bars, including The Fun Hog Ranch, Charlie's and The Garage.

Love softball? The Amateur Sports Alliance of North America (ASANA) kicks off the annual ASANA 2014 Series softball tournament, Oct. 12-19. ASANA was formed to encourage the participation of lesbians in organized softball competitions. The Tuscany Hotel & Casino is hosting this year's tournament with events taking place at various locations in Las Vegas, including Desert Breeze Park, Shadow Rock Park and Hollywood Park.

Count down to midnight with gay men from around the world at Evolve Vegas NYE, Dec. 30-Jan. 1 at MGM Grand Hotel & Casino. Evolve Vegas NYE is a three-day New Year's Eve event complete with world-class entertainment, private VIP events, shopping experiences, parties, and more.

The largest annual LGBT sports event in the world, the Sin City Shootout, returns to Las Vegas Jan. 15-19. The four-day festival brings more than 7,500 LGBT athletes to the destination each year. Sin City Shootout sports include softball, tennis, wrestling, body building, ice hockey, soccer, golf, football, and much more. The official host hotel is The New Tropicana Las Vegas with various parties scheduled at Piranha Nightclub, Share Nightclub, Charlie's and more.

LAS VEGAS - Cox Business/Hospitality Network, a provider of telecommunications to the commercial services and gaming-resort verticals, announced that it is doubling the speed of three tiers of its wired internet packages available to exhibitors, show management and other users at the Las Vegas Convention Center. While the internet speed is doubling, there will be no additional costs for the faster service, creating an immediate value to end-users of the wired high-speed Internet product. The speed doubling takes effect immediately.

"As the provider of Advanced Convention Services, Cox Business is extremely pleased to implement a no-cost speed increase at the Las Vegas Convention Center." said Derrick Hill, vice president of Cox Business/Hospitality Network in Las Vegas. "This implementation enhances value for convention exhibitors and elevates the attractiveness of the Las Vegas Convention Center as a top-tier convention destination for trade shows with their ever increasing demand for robust internet technology."

"We are excited to offer our trade show partners and their exhibitors and delegates high-speed wired internet service that allows them the ability to conduct critical business on the show floor twice as fast as before," said Terry Jicinsky, senior vice president of operations for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA). "As the No. 1 trade show destination in North America, we're committed to staying ahead of our competition by providing the latest technology and exceptional customer service that helps our clients improve their business and tradeshow experience."

The speed increases will involve three tiers of wired internet in both the "shared bandwidth" and "dedicated bandwidth" service tiers. Five of the service tiers are being increased by 100 percent while the tier offering 10 Mbps of dedicated bandwidth will be augmented by 125 percent to 25 Mbps.

Advanced Convention Services from Cox Business/Hospitality Network at the Las Vegas Convention Center provides among the fastest, if not the fastest wired internet speeds in the convention industry with a sliding speed scale ranging from 3 Megabits per second (Mbps) to dedicated on-site fiber optic connectivity providing speeds up to 10 Gigabits per second (Gbps).

In addition to wired internet, Cox Business / Hospitality Network also provides Wi-Fi based wireless Internet services, wired voice services, private network options and TV services. The company is also facilitating the installation of a state-of-the-art interior 3G/4G cellular Distributed Antenna System (DAS) designed to improve wireless capabilities inside the Las Vegas Convention Center.

About the LVCVA
The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) is charged with marketing Southern Nevada as a tourism and convention destination worldwide, and also with operating the Las Vegas Convention Center and Cashman Center. With more than 150,000 hotel rooms in Las Vegas alone and 10.8 million square feet of meeting and exhibit space citywide, the LVCVA's mission centers on attracting ever increasing numbers of leisure and business visitors to the area. For more information, go to www.vegasmeansbusiness, www.lvcva.com or www.lasvegas.com.

About Cox Communications
Cox Communications is a broadband communications and entertainment company, providing advanced digital video, Internet and telephone services over its own nationwide IP network. The third-largest U.S. cable TV company, Cox serves approximately 6 million residences and businesses. Cox Business is a facilities-based provider of voice, video and data solutions for commercial customers, and Cox Media is a full-service provider of national and local cable spot and new media advertising. Cox is known for its pioneering efforts in cable telephone and commercial services, industry-leading customer care and its outstanding workplaces. For eight years, Cox has been recognized as the top operator for women by Women in Cable Telecommunications; Cox has ranked among DiversityInc's Top 50 Companies for Diversity nine times, including the last eight years. More information about Cox Communications, a wholly owned subsidiary of Cox Enterprises, is available at www.cox.com and www.coxmedia.com.

Hospitality Network (HN), a product of Cox Business in Las Vegas, provides state-of-the-art video-on-demand, high-definition, digital cable and interactive television services as well as wired and wireless data solutions to approximately 110,000 guest rooms in the world's largest gaming hotels and resorts. Clients are located in Nevada, New Jersey, Mississippi and other areas of the United States. HN also features iGuestbookSM, a high-tech, in-room interactive guest resource. Visit www.coxhn.com.

LAS VEGAS -No other destination in the U.S. celebrates Mexican Independence Day quite like Las Vegas, and this year's festivities will bring unparalleled excitement in honor of El Grito. More than 300,000 visitors will make their way to the Entertainment Capital of the World to savor world-class Mexican cuisine, dance to rhythms of the hottest Latin music artists, revel in one-of-a-kind nightlife, share laughs with famed comedians, experience thrilling sporting events, and more. Las Vegas is the most popular international travel destination for Mexican travelers, with the destination seeing more than 300,000 visitors by air alone in 2013.

"Visitors to Las Vegas during Mexican Independence Day will be able to surround themselves with the excitement of the destination perfectly mixed with the vibrant and enduring heritage of the holiday," said Cathy Tull, senior vice president of marketing for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA). "Guests of all nationalities can indulge in the best of Mexican tradition, cuisine and entertainment with an atmosphere that only Las Vegas can offer."

Additionally, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas will host a midnight ceremonial ringing of the bell to welcome El Grito on Sept. 15. Visitors will have the opportunity to toast with mariachi and folkloric dancers as well as performers mingling on the property during the holiday weekend.

The excitement continues in Downtown Las Vegas on Sept. 13 at The Fiesta Las Vegas Latino Parade & Festival, Southern Nevada's largest Latino parade and festival. The parade begins at 10 a.m. and will feature an array of entertainment by local, national and international artists. The party resumes with the festival at noon on Sept. 14 at the Clark County Amphitheater.

In addition to entertainment, Las Vegas has redefined the culinary experience by offering top-notch restaurants and the most comprehensive collection of celebrity chefs in the world. Guests can enjoy tasty culinary delights and drink specials during El Grito at amazing venues on the Las Vegas Strip:

Hecho en Vegas at MGM Grand Hotel & Casino is led by Executive Chef Reed Osterholt and provides one of the most authentic dining experiences inspired by the Sonoran-style cooking of North Mexico. The restaurant and bar will feature various drink offerings and specialty menu items in honor of Mexican Independence Day.

STK, the sultry steakhouse inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, will offer guests a special tequila basil cocktail known as the "Basil'rita" through Sept. 16.

The Buffet at ARIA Resort & Casino will serve a special brunch 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and gourmet dinner starting at 3:30 p.m., Sept. 12-16. All-you-can-drink premium beverages are available to add to guests' meals any day, and endless margaritas will be available during the holiday weekend.

If you want it, Vegas has it. From designer splurges to bargain deals, Las Vegas has become a one-stop shopping mecca. Everything from premium outlets to haute couture boutiques can be found in retail centers along the Las Vegas Strip and surrounding areas. Only in Las Vegas will you find daily live fashion shows on an 80-foot runway; gondolas that whisk you to fine boutiques and an assortment of free shows to entertain you while you rest your feet.

LAS VEGAS - The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) today celebrated the 50th anniversary of The Beatles only performance in the "Entertainment Capital of the World" by unveiling a permanent plaque on the site of the two sold-out 1964 concerts in the Las Vegas Convention Center. The LVCVA also debuted "The Beatles: Las Vegas 1964," a multi-media exhibit from the Las Vegas News Bureau, featuring the Fab Four's visit from the fans' perspectives.

Several hundred people, many of whom were at one or both shows on August 20, 1964, attended the day's celebration which included a surprise appearance by cast members from The Beatles LOVE by Cirque du Soleil at The Mirage. Clark County Commissioner and LVCVA Board Chairman Tom Collins presented a proclamation declaring August 20, 2014, "The Beatles Day in Southern Nevada."

"I remember it well...it was a Thursday, and I was a teenager, just coming back from a summer trip to Texas," said Commissioner Collins. "My stepdad was driving me home down Paradise Road and when we got to the Convention Center, there was a traffic jam and thousands of screaming teenagers standing outside the Convention Center in the middle of the day. It was a scene like no other. We later found out it was The Beatles. It was a big day for Las Vegas and remains one of the most talked about occasions in the Las Vegas Convention Center's 55-year history."

The plaque, located in the grand lobby of the Las Vegas Convention Center near the N1 Hall entrance, marks the approximate spot of the where the stage was set for the 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. shows. It features a photo of The Beatles arriving at what was then known as McCarran Field and a replica of LVCVA President/CEO Rossi Ralenkotter's ticket to the second show.

"August 20, 1964, was an incredible day in Las Vegas, and one I'll never forget," said Rossi Ralenkotter, who attended both Las Vegas concerts. "Beatlemania was beginning to sweep across the country, and there was an excitement in Las Vegas that had rarely been seen at that time. The response was so great, the promoters - Herb McDonald, Stan Irwin and John Romero of the Sahara Hotel & Casino - decided to add a show and move the concerts from the Sahara Hotel's Congo Room to the Las Vegas Convention Center. The minute John, Paul, George and Ringo walked onto the stage in the Convention Center, Las Vegas' title as ‘Entertainment Capital of the World' was cemented in history."

Chuck Gunderson, author of Some Fun Tonight! The Backstage Story of How The Beatles Rocked America: The Historic Tours of 1964-1966, attended today's unveiling and provided perspective on the tour.

"It was record-shattering, precedent-setting, groundbreaking, earth-shaking, and moneymaking," said Gunderson. "The Beatles' 1964 tour of North America would turn the entertainment business on its ears and forever change the landscape of the concert touring industry, even in Las Vegas. The soon-to-be entertainment mecca was by far the smallest populated city the group performed in during the 1964 tour, but the Fab Four all wanted to see the city firsthand."

More than 16,800 people attended the two concerts. It was the only time in history all four members of The Beatles played in Las Vegas together. Violet Hawkes, a longtime Las Vegan, attended both concerts with three friends and talked about her experience at today's celebration.

"We had no idea how crazy it was going to be, and we get to the Las Vegas Convention Center for the afternoon show, and it was packed with screaming fans," recalled Hawkes. "We all said to each other that we were not going to scream. When The Beatles came out, I jumped out of my seat and took pictures even with the security person making me get back to my seat. We all screamed along with everyone else.

"That evening, we went to the second show and sat in the upper seats, and we screamed during that show too," Hawkes continued. "We talked about those shows for days. We did not realize back then that The Beatles would change the music scene forever. I feel very lucky to have been able to experience that day and to be here fifty years later to experience this dedication."

Additional stories similar to Hawkes' are the centerpiece of the free exhibit, "The Beatles: Las Vegas 1964." From screaming teens and security guards to publicity agents and news reporters, the exhibit includes video testimonials and photographs from the people who experienced the commotion on Aug. 20, 1964. The multi-media exhibition is open to the public and will be on display in the grand lobby of the Las Vegas Convention Center through Oct. 27.

Journalists and news organizations can access hi-resolution images of the celebration later today as well as photos and HD video of Las Vegas events on the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority's media center at www.thenewsmarket.com/LVCVA. For additional photos and b-roll, contact the LVCVA News Bureau at news@lvcva.com or 702-735-3611.

]]>http://www.lvcva.com///article/las-vegas-celebrates-the-50th-anniversary-of-the-beatles'-1964-concerts/972/
http://www.lvcva.com/article/las-vegas-slam-dunk-college-basketball/1002/
http://www.lvcva.com//press-room/press-releases/?show=rss
LVCVA Press Releasesen-usLVCVA’s Rossi Ralenkotter Inducted into Inaugural Destination Marketing Hall of FameFri, 25 Jul 2014 00:00:00
Rossi Ralenkotter, president/CEO of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA), has been honored with the 2014 destination marketing Hall of Fame Award by Destination Marketing Association International (DMAI). The award was created to honor individuals who have changed the future of destination marketing for the better, made significant contributions to the advancement of the industry and shaped travel marketing.

"DMAI as an organization recognized the importance of leadership in our industry to sustain our 100 year history and grow destination marketing into the multibillion dollar industry that it is today," said Michael Gehrisch, president and CEO of DMAI. "Our goal is to shine a spotlight on these pioneers, champions and influencers, and allow our members around the globe an opportunity to get to know them and their works."

Ralenkotter, last year celebrated his fortieth year at the LVCVA, where he oversaw the creation of the most successful branding campaign in tourism history, best known for its oft-repeated tagline, "What happens here, stays here." It was selected the No. 1 campaign by the voting public and was inducted into the Madison Avenue Advertising Walk of Fame in 2011.

Ralenkotter is engaged with the travel industry, having served as a delegate to the White House Conference on Tourism, chairman of the Travel and Tourism Advisory Board for the U.S. Department of Commerce, and chairman of the U.S. Travel Association.

Ralenkotter has been named one of the 25 Most Influential People in the Meetings Industry by Meeting News and was named Co-Brand Marketer of the Year by Brandweek magazine. He has received Lifetime Achievement Awards from the American Marketing Association, the Travel and Tourism Research Association, and was recently announced to be inducted into the U.S. Travel Hall of Leaders.

"With more than 41 years at the LVCVA, Rossi is truly the North Star for the Las Vegas tourism industry," said Cathy Tull, senior vice president of marketing for the LVCVA. "He has made an indelible mark on the destination with his leadership and vision and without Rossi, we wouldn't have one of the most popular Vegas phrases ever - ‘What Happens Here Stays Here.'"

]]>http://www.lvcva.com///article/lvcva’s-rossi-ralenkotter-inducted-into-inaugural-destination-marketing-hall-of-fame/969/
http://www.lvcva.com/article/las-vegas-slam-dunk-college-basketball/1002/
http://www.lvcva.com//press-room/press-releases/?show=rss
LVCVA Press Releasesen-usLVCVA’s Cathy Tull Set to Lead on the Destination Marketing Association International 2014-2015 Board of DirectorsThu, 24 Jul 2014 00:00:00
Cathy Tull, senior vice president of marketing for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) has been chosen to serve on the Destination Marketing Association International (DMAI) 2014-2015 board of directors. The new board was sanctioned at DMAI's 2104 Annual Convention in Las Vegas, Nevada. During the event the organization celebrated 100 years of advancing destination marketing organizations.

"I believe the sustained success of DMAI is a tribute to the remarkable leadership and unique level of collaboration within our industry," said Michael Gehrisch, president and CEO of DMAI. "DMAI is an association driven by its volunteer leadership, and we pride ourselves on creating an environment and community where you have much to gain and much to contribute. As we look towards what the future holds for our industry, we are privileged to have such strong leadership guiding the way. There has never been a more exciting time for DMOs and the DMAI community."

"I am honored to serve on the DMAI Board of Directors among other top destination marketers," said Tull. "Destination marketing is essential to maintaining a strong and vibrant tourism industry and is vital to the long-term success of Las Vegas. Through this board, I look forward to sharing ideas among industry leaders. "

Scott Beck, president & CEO of Visit Salt Lake, will take the helm as chair of the DMAI Board of Directors. "Serving as Chair provides me an opportunity to give back to an industry and the people within it who have given me so much," Beck remarked. "Yes, it means more meetings - but it also means more chances to learn from these incredible professionals. Being Chair at this time is particularly special. We remain relevant as an industry, our centennial this year proves that, but we must look for opportunities to enhance that relevance and provide additional value."

]]>http://www.lvcva.com///article/lvcva’s-cathy-tull-set-to-lead-on-the-destination-marketing-association-international-2014-2015-board-of-directors/968/
http://www.lvcva.com/article/las-vegas-slam-dunk-college-basketball/1002/
http://www.lvcva.com//press-room/press-releases/?show=rss
LVCVA Press Releasesen-usLVCVA's Chris Meyer Named Chairman of the Board of Directors for CEMATue, 15 Jul 2014 00:00:00
LAS VEGAS - The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority's (LVCVA) Chris Meyer, vice president of global business sales, has been named Chairman of the Board for the Corporate Event Marketing Association (CEMA). Meyer served as vice president this past year. This year, CEMA transitioned from a president to a chairperson to help guide and oversee the association's efforts.

"I'm honored to be the first to serve as Chairman of the Board to help lead this prestigious association of event marketers," said Meyer. "The meetings and events industry is a key ingredient in creating strong and vibrant communities and ensuring the health and vitality of the industry is crucial to the long-term success of the Las Vegas economy. Through this designation, I look forward to the opportunity to reinforce the value of corporate events and to sharing the ideas of industry leaders."

Las Vegas hosted more than 22,000 meeting, conventions, and trade shows in 2013. Convention and trade show delegates represent approximately 12.7 percent of all visitors to the Southern Nevada region, or approximately 5.1 million business travelers a year. The meeting and convention industry supports approximately 61,200 local jobs and generates as much as $7.4 billion in local economic impact.

CEMA is an industry hub that promotes professional networking opportunities with its more than 600 active members. Meyer has been a member of CEMA for more than fifteen years.

"We are excited and honored Chris Meyer will be serving CEMA as our Chairman of the Board this next year," said Kimberley Gishler, President and CEO of CEMA. "Chris has been a long-time CEMA member, contributing his extensive skills as an innovative and enthusiastic thought-leader in the industry, encouraging our members to create and deliver incredible experiences at corporate events. We look forward to the vision and guidance Chris will provide to our board and in turn, our members."

Meyer joined the LVCVA in 2000 as manager of convention center sales and spent six years as the vice president of sales. In 2013, he was named vice president of global business sales.

Journalists and news organizations can access a hi-resolution photo of Meyer as well as photos and HD video of Las Vegas events on the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority's media center at www.thenewsmarket.com/LVCVA. For additional photos and b-roll, contact the LVCVA News Bureau at news@lvcva.com or 702-735-3611.

"Las Vegas is the meetings and convention capital of the world, and we intend to keep that title for a very long time," said Cathy Tull, senior vice president of marketing for the LVCVA. "Our new campaigns stand out by capitalizing on the energy and excitement of Las Vegas and adding our unique flair to the serious business of conducting meetings and events. The creative emphasizes that no destination delivers on the promise of value, convenience, customer service and unlimited options like Las Vegas."

One campaign, titled "Entertain You," targets the business-to-consumer market of C-suite executives who make the final decision on selecting a corporate meeting venue. Using the tagline, "We're Here to Do More Than Entertain You," a series of print and digital ads speak directly to senior management emphasizing the return on investment for Las Vegas meetings while maintaining the destination's distinct personality. The ads feature iconic Las Vegas entertainers in office settings, including illusionist David Copperfield, a performer from Cirque du Soleil's Mystère and a Las Vegas showgirl.

While many know Las Vegas for its world-class entertainment, this creative underscores Las Vegas' value proposition, exceptional customer service, and unmatched ability to meet and exceed virtually any need a business might have when holding a corporate meeting or event. The media strategy for this campaign includes print, digital and radio spots in national business news outlets. The ads begin running this month.

The complementing campaign, called "Neon Signs," focuses directly on the business-to-business market segment of meeting and event professionals. With more than 22,000 meetings, events, conventions and trade shows a year, Las Vegas is already top-of-mind for industry professionals. The campaign seeks to fortify Las Vegas' popularity through a two-part approach, building on the destination's many strengths in hosting meetings. The first series of print and digital ads launching this month introduce the tagline, "Las Vegas Makes Every Meeting Exciting." The creative features the names of fictional, dry-sounding meetings illuminated in the famous neon lights of Las Vegas to underscore the point that any event immediately becomes a must-attend function when held in the Entertainment Capital of the World.

The campaign will add a new element in the first quarter of 2015 with the introduction of additional ads using the tagline, "Las Vegas Makes Events More Eventful." This series of digital and print ads feature common items found at meetings dramatically bejeweled and sparkling, playing off the energy and excitement that only Las Vegas delivers. The campaign will run in meetings and convention industry trade publications. The campaigns were created by the LVCVA's agency of record, R&R Partners.

Surveys show Las Vegas is popular with meeting professionals, scoring high on "likelihood to choose," "favorability as a meeting place" and "excellent/good value." Research also shows attendance increases on average 8 percent when meetings rotate into Las Vegas. Reasons behind these favorable ratings include the expansive variety of activities and venues providing unlimited numbers of options accommodating any budget. The destination offers more than 150,000 rooms, more than 10.8 million square feet of meeting and exhibition space and state-of-the-art facilities. In addition, more than 920 in and outbound flights per day from more than 130 cities make Las Vegas easily accessible. With nearly 275,000 dedicated resort and hospitality industry employees, Las Vegas provides superior customer service for meetings and events, ranging in size from 10 to more than 150,000 attendees. Earlier this year, Las Vegas was named the No. 1 trade show destination in the United States for the 20th consecutive year by Trade Show News Network - a distinction no other destination can claim.

The meetings and convention industry is critical to Las Vegas' economy and a key growth market. Convention and trade show delegates represent approximately 12.7 percent of all visitors to the Southern Nevada region, or approximately 5.1 million business travelers a year. Las Vegas' meetings and convention industry supports approximately 61,200 local jobs with $2.3 billion in salaries and generates as much as $7.4 billion in local economic impact.

Journalists and news organizations can access hi-resolution images of the campaigns as well as photos and HD video of Las Vegas events on the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority's media center at www.thenewsmarket.com/LVCVA. For additional photos and b-roll, contact the LVCVA News Bureau at news@lvcva.com or 702-735-3611

LAS VEGAS - Whether you're in to taekwondo, comic books or bodybuilding, you'll find it next year at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC). The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) is pleased to announce the return of American Taekwondo Association (ATA) Spring National Tournament and Mr. Olympia presented by the International Federation of Body Builders. New to the LVCC convention calendar for 2015 is Wizard World Las Vegas Comic Con. All three shows are open to the general public.

The ATA Spring National Tournament is back in Las Vegas March 13-16. The event allows competitors to test and display their skills in a controlled, competitive environment. The association also includes opportunities for education and training sessions during the three-day event. An estimated 5,000 people are expected at attend the tournament. ATA is the premier North American organization dedicated to the martial arts discipline of taekwondo. They first came to Las Vegas in 1995 and have held 18 tournaments here.

Sculpted physiques return September 18-19 as part of Joe Weider's Olympia Fitness & Performance Weekend 2015. Mr. Olympia is the title awarded to the winner of the professional men's bodybuilding contest. The competition, which is expected to draw 30,000 attendees, will celebrate its 10th year in Las Vegas next year.

The meetings and convention industry is critical to Las Vegas' economy attracting 12.7 percent of all visitors to Southern Nevada. The industry supports approximately 61,200 local jobs with $2.3 billion in salaries and generates as much as $7.4 billion in local economic impact.

Today, Las Vegas announced the beginning of Vegas Season with a city-wide activation in Chicago. Similar to the holiday season, Vegas Season comes just once a year and is the season of living - resorts, shows, dining, shopping, pools - Las Vegas has it all. Vegas Season has something for everyone and it is the perfect time to let loose, recharge and make memories that will last a lifetime.

"Las Vegas comes to life during the summer with unparalleled daylife, nightlife, entertainment, dining, shopping and more," said Cathy Tull, senior vice president of marketing for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA). "Vegas Season embodies the summertime spirit, freedom, fun and rewarding yourself with a much-deserved vacation."

Las Vegas took Chicago by storm as Mr. Las Vegas himself, Wayne Newton, and more than 100 Vegas Season carolers hit the streets of the Windy City. The morning began in Union Station as the carolers, sporting white robes and sunglasses, belted out Vegas Season carols, including "Put Your Booty in a Swimsuity" and "Summa Girls, Vegas Girls." The morning crowds were also privy to Newton appearing live on WBBM, followed by multiple appearances on WGN as they serenaded commuters via a riverboat as it coasted along the Chicago River. The next stops were Pioneer Court and Buckingham Fountain as the carolers set up shop at the renowned locations and treated crowds to energetic and engaging performances.

Vegas Season came full circle at Wrigley Field on Friday afternoon. Wayne Newton joined the sprawling group of carolers in front of the iconic Wrigley Field marquee to greet fans and pose for photos before Newton headed inside to throw out the first pitch in the Chicago Cubs vs. Pittsburgh Pirates game.

Today, the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA), McCarran International Airport and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) released eight new pre-checkpoint security videos. The videos can be seen by all travelers who visit McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas and feature some well-known entertainers in Las Vegas, including Carrot Top, Blue Man Group, Terry Fator, Louie Anderson and more.

"Our goal is to ensure we provide an unparalleled experience to each and every person that visits Las Vegas," said Cathy Tull, senior vice president of marketing for the LVCVA. "These videos not only provide that experience but also deliver necessary information to guests in a fun and unique way."

In October 2004, Las Vegas became the first destination to create tailored, fun and informative pre-checkpoint videos. The videos were created through the Traveler Information Pre-Screening Series program (TIPS). Since the creation of the original videos more than 10 years ago, many TSA practices have adjusted. This sparked the creation of eight new messages that include more recent changes to TSA procedures.

"McCarran International Airport is pleased to have new TIPS videos that capture passengers' attention and get important messages across," said Michael Bennett, the airport's Assistant Director of Aviation over Security. "By engaging people in that ‘Only in Vegas' way, these videos make our checkpoints a little less cumbersome and keep things running smoothly."

The new security videos will assist McCarran International Airport in maintaining excellent customer service and increase the efficiency of the security checkpoint process. The videos address changes to TSA procedures for liquids, gels and aerosols; metals and electronics; carry-ons; strollers; weapons; TSA Pre✓ and more.

LAS VEGAS - We all know that tourism is the engine that drives the Southern Nevada economy. Now it's time that we recognize the contributions of the industry and the people who work hard to make sure our guests have the greatest possible experience while they are here.

The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) will be hosting several events during the week of May 3 - 11 to celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week.

"We are proud to celebrate Tourism Week each year and be a leader in U.S. Travel's effort to build a higher profile for tourism nationally," said Rossi Ralenkotter, president/CEO of the LVCVA. "Our resort partners and the hundreds of thousands of employees who are committed to serving our guests make Las Vegas the great destination that it is, so it's only appropriate that we make them the center of attention this week."

The centerpiece of the week's celebrations will be a community tourism rally on Tuesday, May 6 at 3:45 p.m. at the Mob Museum, National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement. The LVCVA is partnering with the NV 150 Sesquicentennial Commission to recognize the state's birthday and the part tourism has played in that history. The Mob Museum will also be debuting its new exhibit, Ralph Lamb: The Cowboy Sheriff.

Everyone is encouraged to attend the rally and wear blue to show their support for the industry and its workers. Following the rally, a tourism celebration will be held on Downtown 3rd on Third Street between Stewart and Ogden, featuring complimentary food from Triple George Grill, The Commissary, Stewart + Ogden and Red Mansion at Downtown Grand Las Vegas, as well as Pizza Rock.. Later that evening, the Fremont Street Experience will debut a Tourism Week video recognizing the history of tourism. The tribute will feature dozens of historical photos from the Las Vegas News Bureau with the first showing following the Viva Vision show at 8 p.m.

"Tourism provides a benefit to every single person living in our city, and it's important that we all recognize that we would not have the great way of life we do if it weren't for this industry," said Las Vegas Host Committee Chairman and Official Ambassador of Las Vegas Oscar Goodman. "Tourism has put more than $1 billion into our schools, more than $600 million into our roads, and more than $1 billion into local services such as parks. I think we can all take some time this week to show our appreciation."

To recognize the efforts of the people who work with our guests every day, the LVCVA will continue its Hospitality Hero program. The recognition program was established in 2008 to honor frontline workers who dedicate themselves to serving our visitors. This year, the LVCVA will recognize 60 workers throughout the hospitality industry.

In addition, various iconic sites throughout town will be showing their support by turning blue during Tourism Week, including the Fremont Street Experience canopy, the High Roller at the Linq, Las Vegas City Hall, and more. Several hotel marquees will also be displaying Tourism Week messages and Krispy Kreme will be offering special blue glazed doughnuts at its location at Spring Mountain and Rainbow during the week.

National Travel and Tourism Week was established by a Congressional joint resolution in 1983 to recognize the importance of the tourism industry and its contributions to the national economy. The U.S. Travel Association promotes tourism week every year during the first full week in May.

Social Media:
Follow Tourism Week events on Twitter @VegasHosts and @LVCVA and show your support by wearing blue and posting your photos #TourismMatters and #NTTW

]]>http://www.lvcva.com///article/las-vegas-celebrates-no.-1-economic-driver/952/
http://www.lvcva.com/article/las-vegas-slam-dunk-college-basketball/1002/
http://www.lvcva.com//press-room/press-releases/?show=rss
LVCVA Press Releasesen-usFABULOUS LAS VEGAS WELCOMES LGBT SPECIAL EVENTS AND EMBRACES ITS ROLE AS AN UNASSUMING DESTINATIONTue, 29 Apr 2014 00:00:00The Entertainment Capital of the World Bolsters its Reputation as the Premier LGBT Travel Destination by Welcoming Special Events Throughout the Year

LAS VEGAS - This year, Las Vegas is thrilled to welcome a wide-variety of special events, conferences and programming specific to the LGBT community. From one end of the Strip to the other, Las Vegas is unassuming and welcomes the LGBT community providing each person the opportunity to experience the trip of a lifetime.

Created by lesbians for lesbians, Dinah Vegas celebrated its third year in Las Vegas with an amazing lineup of non-stop entertainment, gourmet dining, sunshine, and more, April 24 - 27. Caesars Entertainment welcomed the ladies in style with live musical performances by G.R.L., Haviland Stillwell and Bria and Chrissy, comedy shows, cocktail parties, and the white-hot Vegas White party at the Paris Rooftop Nightclub at Paris Las Vegas.

The Nevada Gay Rodeo Association brings the western lifestyle to Las Vegas with the BigHorn Rodeo, May 9 and 10, at Horseman's Park. Cheer for your favorite cowboy or cowgirl in rough stock, speed and roping events, as well as enjoy comedy, entertainment and dancing during this weekend of western fun. The party keeps going with evening events at several Las Vegas bars and the BigHorn Sunday Pool Party at the event's host hotel, Alexis Park All Suite Resort.

Las Vegas welcomes the biggest gay dance festival of the summer, Matinee Las Vegas, May 23 - 26. The four-day festival will take over Rumor Hotel with events at Havana Room at The New Tropicana Las Vegas, SHARE Nightclub and RAIN at the Palms Casino Resort. Matinee Las Vegas features eight parties, 20 DJs and welcomes thousands of LGBT partiers from around the world. If you have what it takes to be the next dance music superstar, you can enter the Matinee Las Vegas 2014 DJ contest to win a prize package, including flights, accommodations and a guest DJ set at the main party.

There's more to love at Bigger Vegas, July 9 - 14, at the Tuscany Suites & Casino. Take advantage of special hotel rates, activity packages, pool parties, poker, and karaoke at one of the largest social events for chubby gay men and their admirers.

Show off your high kick and high score at the Las Vegas Showgirl Invitational bowling tournament, Aug. 29 - 31. The event takes place at Sam's Town Hotel & Gambling Hall and includes team competition, as well as singles and doubles tournaments all weekend long. Join local bowlers and teams from across the U.S. in this fun LGBT bowling tournament during Labor Day weekend.

Las Vegas PRIDE takes place Sept. 5 - 7 with a lineup of events that celebrate the diversity and pride within the Las Vegas LGBT community. Events include the annual PRIDE Night Parade on Sept. 5; the PRIDE Festival, taking place in fabulous Downtown Las Vegas on Sept. 6; and a Sunday pool party to close out the weekend. Celebrate your pride with members of the Las Vegas LGBT community and enjoy an exciting weekend of events, entertainment and nightlife.

For the third year in a row, Southern Nevada welcomes Gay Days Las Vegas, Sept. 2 - 8. This all-encompassing event features four full days of pool parties, guest DJ's, a travel-retail expo and various events around town with a portion of all proceeds benefiting local non-profit organizations.

During Pride weekend, Lesbians take over Las Vegas for a full weekend of events at Shedonism, Sept. 4 - 8, at the Rumor Hotel. Hosted by DJ Lisa Pittman, and some of the hottest female DJs, this ladies-only event features day parties, nightclub experiences, comedians, showgirls, a poker tournament, and the Las Vegas Dyke march as part of the Las Vegas PRIDE parade on the evening of Sept. 5.

]]>http://www.lvcva.com///article/fabulous-las-vegas-welcomes-lgbt-special-events-and-embraces-its-role-as-an-unassuming-destination/951/
http://www.lvcva.com/article/las-vegas-slam-dunk-college-basketball/1002/
http://www.lvcva.com//press-room/press-releases/?show=rss
LVCVA Press Releasesen-usLVCVA Receives Top Honor For Financial Reporting for the 30th Consecutive YearFri, 11 Apr 2014 00:00:00National award is highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting

LAS VEGAS - For the 30th consecutive year, the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) has been awarded a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) for its comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR).

The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management.

The CAFR was judged by an impartial panel to meet the high standards of the program, including demonstrating a constructive "spirit of full disclosure" to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate potential users and user groups to read the CAFR.

The GFOA is a nonprofit professional association serving approximately 17,800 government finance professionals with offices in Chicago, IL, and Washington, D.C.

For the first time ever, Las Vegas has created a new television commercial specifically geared towards the LGBT community. The television broadcast spot incorporates a fabulous new twist, and is part of the destination's legendary "What Happens Here, Stays Here" campaign. The widely popular campaign has always celebrated adult freedom, and this new installment champions LGBT travelers and showcases Las Vegas as an unassuming destination. The imaginative commercial launched Monday, April 7 on various well-known national television networks, including Bravo TV, E! Entertainment Television and Logo TV.

"The addition of an LGBT spot to the 'What Happens Here' campaign was a natural next step," said Cathy Tull, senior vice president of marketing for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA). "Las Vegas' campaigns are based on adult freedom and encouraging visitors to experience that freedom first hand."

Las Vegas has been marketing to the LGBT community for more than five years. The newest "What Happens Here, Stays Here" installment is a follow-up to the "Everyone's welcome, even straight people" print and digital campaign, which debuted in 2012 and featured gay and lesbian scenarios. However, this is the first time the destination has created a "What Happens Here, Stays Here" television commercial targeting the LGBT community. Furthermore, Las Vegas is the first destination in the U.S. to do a national mainstream media buy with Bravo TV and E! Entertainment Television to advertise to the LGBT community.

Las Vegas goes above and beyond to ensure LGBT travelers feel valued and have a memorable experience while in the destination. For example, MGM Resorts International, Caesars Entertainment Corp., Wynn Resorts Ltd., and The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas all received perfect scores on the 2014 Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Corporate Equality Index, and were voted Best Places to Work in 2014 for LGBT Equality. These four property groups represent nearly 30 properties in Las Vegas.

"The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority has a long history of actively supporting equality through groundbreaking advertising and community initiatives," said GLAAD president & CEO Sarah Kate Ellis. "In becoming the first-ever destination to show their support in a national mainstream broadcast campaign, they have once again raised the bar for the travel industry."

According to the Community Marketing & Insights (CMI) annual LGBT travel survey, Las Vegas remains a premier travel destination among LGBT travelers. Las Vegas ranked as the second most popular U.S. destination among gay men and third among lesbians.

The "What Happens Here, Stays Here" LGBT television commercial, "The Check In," employs a playful approach to the welcoming ambiance found in Las Vegas and is scheduled to run through 2014.

LAS VEGAS - Las Vegas has been named the No. 1 trade show destination for the 20th consecutive year, according to the Trade Show News Network's (TSNN) "2013 TSNN Top 250 Trade Shows in the United States" list. Las Vegas hosted 53 of the largest shows.

"We are proud of our standing as the top trade show destination for a historic two decades," said Rossi Ralenkotter, president/CEO of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA). "Maintaining the No. 1 ranking is a collaborative effort and a testament to all of the hard working people who make Las Vegas a premier business destination year after year."

The coveted list by Tarsus Group represents the top 250 trade shows held in the country last year, ranked by net square footage. The 53 shows in Las Vegas encompassed 20,113,046 net square feet, or 31.2% percent of the total space for all 250 shows. The largest single show was International CES®, held in Las Vegas, at more than 1.9 million square feet.

"Las Vegas has long reigned as the No. 1 trade show destination in the United States," said TSNN President Rachel Wimberly. "The destination truly has an unparalleled convention and meetings package to offer."

In order to maintain this much sought-after top ranking for many years to come, the LVCVA is moving forward with plans for the Las Vegas Global Business District, a seminal project that will help launch Las Vegas into its next phase of growth as a global destination and an iconic brand. The project calls for a major transformation of the Las Vegas Convention Center and the surrounding area, including the addition of exhibit, meeting and general session space, the development of World Trade Center facility and a comprehensive multi-modal transportation hub. The Las Vegas Global Business District is the most significant economic development project the LVCVA has undertaken since the Las Vegas Convention Center was first built in the 1950s.

Las Vegas' two closest competitors are Chicago with 29 shows and Orlando hosting 24. To see the full TSNN list, visit http://www.tsnn.com/toplists-us.

]]>http://www.lvcva.com///article/las-vegas-celebrates-two-decades-as-no.-1-trade-show-destination/947/
http://www.lvcva.com/article/las-vegas-slam-dunk-college-basketball/1002/
http://www.lvcva.com//press-room/press-releases/?show=rss
LVCVA Press Releasesen-usLAS VEGAS TRANSFORMS INTO OASIS OF SIZZLING LGBT POOL PARTIES THIS SUMMER SEASONThu, 27 Mar 2014 00:00:00Everyone's Welcome, Even Straight People to Experience all the Glitz and Glam of the Destination's Summer Season, Kicking Off March 29

Las Vegas is splashing into the summer season with some of the hottest LGBT pool parties in the world. The destination is a mecca for fun in the sun and keeps the party going with one-of-a-kind entertainment, unique craft cocktails and fabulous venues that can only be found in the Entertainment Capital of the World.

Debuting this summer is Xposed! at the all-new Tropicana Beach Club at The New Tropicana Las Vegas. Xposed! is the first and only gay beach party on Saturdays in Las Vegas. Tropicana Beach Club features a breathtaking tropical pool area that is surrounded by magnificent fountains, palm trees and luxurious daybeds and cabanas. Attendees can indulge in exclusive handcrafted cocktails and delectable light bites during this revolutionary LGBT dayclub experience. Xposed! kicks-off March 29 and takes place 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. every Saturday throughout the summer.

The summer fun continues at Blue Moon Hotel for Men, Las Vegas' only all-male gay resort. Those looking for a classic BBQ with a twist can stop by Boys & Burgers, March 30 - Oct. 31. This sexy, men-only BBQ is clothing optional and begins at noon each Sunday. Don't forget to stop by Blue Moon Resort on May 25 for a special Memorial Day Pool Bash, and Aug. 31 for a Labor Day Pool Bash.

Created by lesbians for lesbians, Dinah Vegas is back for its third year in Las Vegas with an amazing lineup of non-stop entertainment, gourmet dining, sunshine and more, April 24 - 27. Be sure to make waves on April 26 at the "Infinity" Pool Party at Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel and Casino. The exclusive pool party heats up from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. with live performances, refreshing cocktails and more.

Back with a splash for its sixth season is Las Vegas' longest running LGBT pool party, Temptation Sundays at Luxor Hotel & Casino. This sexy poolside party takes place every Sunday beginning May 18 and features amazing DJs spinning the summer's hottest soundtracks, specialty drinks and more.

Las Vegas welcomes the biggest gay dance festival of the summer, Matinee Las Vegas, May 23 -26. The four-day festival features eight parties, 20 DJs and welcomes thousands of LGBT partiers from around the world. Looking for things to do poolside during the festival? On May 24, check out Rumor Pool at Rumor Las Vegas Hotel from 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Tropicana Beach Club at The New Tropicana Resort from 9 p.m. - 5 a.m. for two of the best dance pool parties of the season. The celebration continues 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. on May 25 at Rumor Pool.

For the third year in a row, Southern Nevada welcomes Gay Days Las Vegas, Sept. 2 - 8. This all-encompassing event features everything from LGBT owned businesses to four full days of pool parties. The Las Vegas event will also include a travel-retail expo and various events all around town with a portion of proceeds benefiting local non-profit organizations.

The Las Vegas News Bureau is presenting a unique collection of photos of historic Las Vegas landmarks that have been enhanced with vibrant colors and soft pastels. The added color offers a vivid visual interpretation of some of our favorite historic pictures from 1950-1960.

The photos were re-visualized by Brian Jones, a longtime photographer with the Las Vegas News Bureau. In "Re-Visualizing Las Vegas," Jones has brought to life a new perspective to many of the timeless black and white images using modern techniques in Photoshop. The exhibition was curated by Kelli Luchs, Las Vegas News Bureau archivist and the Las Vegas-Clark County Library District.

For more than 65 years, the Las Vegas News Bureau has captured the sights and sounds of the world's leading destination like no one else. The News Bureau was created in 1947 as part of the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce's marketing efforts to promote Las Vegas as a tourist destination.

The exhibit will be open during regular library hours at the following locations:

In honor of St. Patrick's Day, the Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority (LVCVA) in partnership with Tourism Ireland have created a very special Irish welcome by turning the famous 'Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas' sign green in honor of St. Patrick's weekend by replacing the normal yellow bulbs with green. As the world gears up for St. Patrick's Day, the famous Betty Willis designed 'Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas' sign turned green last night, kicking off this weekend's celebrations and Tourism Ireland's ‘Global Greening' 2014 initiative.

Irish celebrity and host of Midday, Sybil Mulcahy, flew to Las Vegas to oversee the turning on of the green lights and to get the Vegas party started. Sybil received a great welcome in Las Vegas where she was joined by Clark County Commissioner Mary Beth Scow, Terry Murphy, honorary consul of Ireland for Nevada, Caroline Coyle, vice president of brand strategy for the LVCVA, Irish singer Brendan Bowyer, Las Vegas showgirls, members of the Celtic Crown Dance Academy and employees of Rí Rá Irish Pub.

"We are pleased to partner once again with our friends at Tourism Ireland on their ‘Global Greening' initiative," said Cathy Tull, senior vice president of marketing for the LVCVA. "Celebrating St. Patrick's Day is a longstanding American tradition, and there's no better place to celebrate than in Las Vegas."

Niall Gibbons, chief executive of Tourism Ireland, added, "We are absolutely delighted that the famous 'Welcome' sign in Las Vegas is joining our St. Patrick's celebrations this year. St. Patrick's Day traditionally marks the real start of the tourism season for us. Our message is that there has never been a better time to 'Jump In' and plan a visit to Ireland."

Las Vegas is in great company this St. Patrick's Day as many landmarks and iconic sites around the world are going green in honor of St. Patrick. The Leaning Tower of Pisa, Niagara Falls, the Sydney Opera House, the London Eye and the Pyramids of Giza are amongst the landmarks and iconic sites all going green. The Las Vegas Welcome sign will stay green until March 18 in honor of all things Irish.

The 'Global Greening' is a Tourism Ireland initiative which puts huge focus on Ireland around St. Patrick's Day. It gives people worldwide the opportunity to connect with Ireland or reconnect with their Irish past.

The International Tourism Safety Conference is a gathering for safety and security officials in the travel and tourism industry focused on providing delegates with new information, trends, equipment, strategies and best practices in keeping visitors safe.

New this year, the ISC West Exhibit Show co-locates with the International Tourism Safety Conference providing attendees more information and added insight on the latest safety strategies, technology and equipment. ISC West, the security industry's premier launching pad for new products, solutions and technologies, hosts more than 1,000 international and domestic security product manufacturing companies and more than 26,000 security professionals.

"Providing a safe and secure experience is essential in sustaining a healthy tourism industry," said Ray Suppe, president of International Tourism Safety Association and director of security for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. "This conference provides everyone in the tourism industry with the tools and information they need to ensure their destinations and attractions are taking every possible step to provide a safe and positive experience."

The conference will feature presentations addressing issues such as coordinating and securing major events, tourism safety tactics used in other countries, understanding food safety issues, safeguarding international and lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender visitors and working with the media. A Tourism Oriented Policing and Protective Services (TOPPS) certification course will also be offered.

For more information or to register for the conference, visit www.touristsafety.org.

]]>http://www.lvcva.com///article/las-vegas-hosts-21st-international-safety-conference/943/
http://www.lvcva.com/article/las-vegas-slam-dunk-college-basketball/1002/
http://www.lvcva.com//press-room/press-releases/?show=rss
LVCVA Press Releasesen-usCountry Music’s Biggest Superstars Kick up Their Boots in Las Vegas, April 3-7 for “The Week Vegas Goes Country®”Tue, 11 Mar 2014 00:00:00The Entertainment Capital of the World hosts a non-stop country party for the ACM Awards

The biggest names in country music will bring the party to Las Vegas April 3-7 for a packed lineup of entertainment, music and more for "The Week Vegas Goes Country®." Fans can experience a fun-filled weekend full of exclusive parties, celebrity meet-and-greets and concerts in the days leading up to the 49th Annual Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards, which will be broadcast live on CBS from the MGM Grand Garden Arena at 5 p.m. PDT April 6. Country superstars Blake Shelton and Luke Bryan return to host the ACM Awards for the second year to honor the best and brightest talent in country music.

TheFourth Annual ACM Fan Jam, headlined by country-pop duo Florida Georgia Line, will take place April 6 at Mandalay Bay Events Center. This live remote location gives country music super-fans the ultimate experience as they watch special live performances happening throughout the ACM Awards broadcast. See Florida Georgia Line and others perform today's hottest country hits, and revel in the festivities after the awards show ends. Limited tickets are still available for Fan Jam.

The Entertainment Capital of the World kicks-off a series of country music concert events at 7 p.m. on April 3 with 95.5 The Bull's Sixth Annual All-Star Guitar Pull at Red Rock Resort & Casino. This unique charity concert will have performances from Gary Allan, Sheryl Crow, Kacey Musgraves, Thomas Rhett, Kellie Pickler, Parmalee, Dustin Lynch and Lindsay Ell. Proceeds from the event will benefit St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Country music gives back at the Second Annual ACM Party for a Cause. It's the first special event to be held at The LINQ, and is presented by ACM Lifting Lives® and Big Machine Label Group. Proceeds from the event will benefit Outnumber Hunger and several military philanthropies. Country sensations Rascal Flatts and Keith Urban co-headline the two-day event, with supporting performances from Thomas Rhett, The Cadillac Three, Jerrod Niemann, Joe Nichols, Chris Young and the three final nominees for ACM New Artist of the Year, Brett Eldredge, Justin Moore and Kip Moore.

Fans can salute our armed forces during ACM Presents: An All-Star Salute to the Troops, April 7 at MGM Grand Hotel & Casino. Some of the biggest names to grace country music, including Merle Haggard, George Strait, Carrie Underwood, Florida Georgia Line, Lady Antebellum and The Band Perry will perform during the tribute that will be broadcast May 20 on CBS.

For those who just can't get enough country music, Las Vegas delivers a variety of additional concerts throughout "The Week Vegas Goes Country®." Maggie Rose, the voice behind the hit singles "I Ain't Your Mama," is performing at 8 p.m. on April 4 at Silverton Casino Hotel. Club Madrid at Sunset Station welcomes Ty Herndon at 7 p.m. on April 5. Live Nation Presents Blackberry Smoke - Fire in the Hole Tour 2014 which will take place at 8 p.m. on April 5 at the House of Blues at Mandalay Bay Hotel & Casino.

Country roads lead to Las Vegas all year long with unforgettable nights at local clubs, bars and venues. Stoney's Rockin' Country at Town Square is the largest country nightclub in Las Vegas, offering nightly line-dance lessons. Country fans can also kick up their boots at Gilley's Saloon inside Treasure Island Hotel & Casino, PBR Rock Bar at the Miracle Mile Shops inside Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino and Toby Keith's I Love This Bar & Grill at Harrah's Las Vegas.

Fans can also rub elbows with the biggest country stars with a trip to Madame Tussauds Las Vegas at The Venetian. Get your picture taken with country superstar Tim McGraw and dozens of other celebrities.

Start your engines and take a real NASCAR stock car for a test drive at the Richard Petty Driving Experience at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway April 4-6. Your adrenaline will be pumping after three laps on the famous tri-oval track.

LAS VEGAS - From fast cars and college hoops, to Major League Baseball, Las Vegas is the place to be this month for major sporting events. The destination will host hundreds of thousands of visitors who will experience the annual NASCAR weekend, four NCAA Basketball Conference Championships, the Chicago Cubs and the New York Mets, and other high profile sports action.

The month starts off strong with the return of the single largest sporting event in the state-the NASCAR Sprint Cup race. During the second weekend of March, more than 150,000 fans will gather at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, generating $146 million in non-gaming economic impact for Southern Nevada. The races include the Nationwide Series Boyd Gaming 300 on Saturday and the Sprint Cup Series Kobalt 400 on Sunday.

Racing month continues with the iconic Mint 400 March 12-16, a grueling desert race that features some of the best off-road competitors in the world. The Monster Jam World Finals features the top 32 monster truck drivers as they jump, roll and trample the competition at Sam Boyd Stadium March 20-22. And to close the month, the fastest sport on wheels hits The Strip at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway for the annual National Hot Rod Associations (NHRA) SummitRacing.com Nationals March 28-30.

Major League Baseball takes over Cashman Field March 15-16 for what has become a springtime tradition for visitors and residents alike. The Chicago Cubs will make their 10th straight appearance for Big League Weekend facing the New York Mets, the Las Vegas 51's Major League affiliate.

In addition, Las Vegas is the only destination to host four NCAA basketball conference championships including the West Coast Conference (WCC), Western Athletic Conference (WAC), Mountain West Conference (MWC) and Pacific Athletic Conference (PAC12). The tournaments will generate more than $20 million in non-gaming economic impact. Selection Sunday for the NCAA Championship Tournament follows the conference championships, setting into play the madness of March that fills rooms and sports books across Las Vegas from March 16 through the final game.

"March is already one of our best months for visitation and these high profile sporting events bring tremendous media exposure and business to Las Vegas," said Cathy Tull, senior vice president of marketing for the LVCVA. "Our ability to host these major events year after year speaks to the continued strength of Las Vegas."

The LVCVA has a goal of setting a record in 2014 by breaking the 40 million visitor mark. Special events like these help increase the visitor base and grow the tourism industry. Tourism remains our leading economic driver sustaining nearly half of all jobs in Southern Nevada and generating $45 billion in local economic impact a year.

LAS VEGAS - The Las Vegas economy is expected to receive a multi-million dollar boost this year thanks to the addition of new convention business and the return of rotating shows. The American Library Association's annual conference and exhibition, American Wind Energy Association's WINDPOWER and Solar Power International are all scheduled to take place in Las Vegas in 2014 for the first time. These three new shows are expected to bring an estimated 50,000 attendees generating nearly $63 million in local non-gaming economic impact.

The destination will also welcome 70 new conventions of at least 500 attendees each during 2014, bringing an estimated 100,000 additional delegates to Las Vegas.

"We are always seeking new business," said Chris Meyer, vice president of global business sales for the LVCVA. "Las Vegas has been the No. 1 trade show destination in North America for 19 consecutive years. We offer an array of unique resorts, world-class entertainment, unmatched customer service and the equivalent of 185 football fields of meeting and exhibit space in one convenient destination. The combination provides groups the opportunity to conduct serious business but also balance it with interesting team-building or networking activities."

In addition to the new business, nine rotating shows return to the destination this year attracting more than 320,000 delegates for a non-gaming economic impact of $404 million. The rotating shows include the return of the CONEXPO-CON/AGG construction show, one of the largest shows held at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Convention and trade show delegates represent approximately 12.7 percent of all visitors to the Southern Nevada region, or approximately 5.1 million business travelers a year. Las Vegas' meetings and convention industry employs approximately 58,000 people and generates as much as $6.8 billion in local non-gaming economic impact.

LAS VEGAS - Las Vegas welcomed nearly 40 million visitors in 2013 and reached a five-year high in two key indicators for the meetings and convention industry.

The 2013 year-end statistics, released today by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA), point to continued recovery and steady growth for the industry. Las Vegas tourism generates $45 billion in economic impact for the local economy and supports more than 380,000 local jobs.

Despite one fewer day last year due to 2012 being a leap year and less room inventory for the majority of the year, visitor volume was just 58,802 visitors shy of setting a record in 2013. Las Vegas hosted 39.67 million annual visitors last year, the second highest visitation total ever.

"We are encouraged to see positive signs of continued growth for Nevada's leading economic engine, particularly in the meetings and convention industry," said Rossi Ralenkotter, president/CEO of the LVCVA. "We will continue building on our momentum in the coming year, and we expect to welcome more visitors to Las Vegas than ever before when several much anticipated resorts and attractions debut in 2014."

Las Vegas is well positioned for continued growth with scheduled openings of The LINQ and High Roller, SLS Las Vegas, Delano Las Vegas, Caesars Entertainment's new resort - The Cromwell, on the corner of Las Vegas Boulevard and Flamingo Road, and the downtown zipline SlotZilla among other new attractions and entertainment options expected to be unveiled in 2014. More than $9 billion of worth of projects have been announced or are currently under construction in Las Vegas.

Other year-end highlights:

• The meetings and convention industry reached a five-year high with 5.1 million delegates attending a convention, trade show or meeting in 2013, reflecting a 3.3 percent increase over last year's total of 4.9 million. This is the highest convention attendance since 2008.

• Las Vegas hosted 22,027 meetings, trade shows or conventions in 2013, up 1.9 percent from the 2012 total of 21,615. The 2013 total is also the highest number of meetings and conventions held in Las Vegas since 2008.

• Average citywide occupancy held steady at 84.3 percent for 2013. Las Vegas' citywide occupancy is 22 percentage points higher than the national average of 62.3 percent. With industry-leading occupancy of 84.3 percent for its 150,593 rooms, Las Vegas fills more rooms per night on average than any destination in North America.

• Clark County gross gaming revenue reached $9.7 billion in 2013, a 2.9 percent increase over 2012. While Downtown Las Vegas was down just 1.6 percent, the Las Vegas Strip revenues increased 4.8 percent to $6.5 billion for the year.

Additional information regarding Las Vegas 2013 visitors will be available later this spring when the LVCVA releases its annual Visitor Profile Study, detailing visitor trends, attitudes, behaviors and spending habits while visiting the destination.

]]>http://www.lvcva.com///article/las-vegas-welcomes-nearly-40-million-visitors-in-2013/937/
http://www.lvcva.com/article/las-vegas-slam-dunk-college-basketball/1002/
http://www.lvcva.com//press-room/press-releases/?show=rss
LVCVA Press Releasesen-usWrangler NFR Stays in Las Vegas through 2024Fri, 24 Jan 2014 00:00:00
LAS VEGAS (January 24, 2014) - Following unanimous votes by the Las Vegas Events Board of Trustees and the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association Board of Directors, both organizations jointly announced today that they have reached an agreement to keep the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas through 2024. The new agreement will begin following the 2014 Wrangler NFR.

Per the agreement, LVE will guarantee $16.5 million annually in purse and sponsorship for the Wrangler NFR. From 2015-19, the contestant purse will be $10 million, while stock contractors will receive $3 million annually. The contestants will be guaranteed $10,000 each year, which will not be offset by contestant winnings. From 2020-24, there will be cost-of-living increases to each purse and guarantee.

Additional elements of the agreement include a season-long sponsorship program with the PRCA, presenting sponsorships of the RAM National Circuit Finals Rodeo and 12 RAM Circuit Final Rodeos, as well as the National Finals Steer Roping, if it is held in Las Vegas.

"Perhaps the best aspect of this agreement," said PRCA Chairman of the Board Keith Martin, "is that it benefits every PRCA member - contestants, stock contractors, committees and contract personnel. There is an investment here to advance the PRCA's circuit system and help the sport continue to grow."

"For nearly 30 years, Las Vegas has built a strong partnership with the PRCA and its contestants," said Bill McBeath, chairman of the Las Vegas Events Board of Trustees. "This new agreement clearly demonstrates the commitment that Las Vegas has to the PRCA, to the overall growth of the sport of rodeo and to the contestants. We feel that the new agreement is beneficial to all parties, and we're very pleased to continue to host this iconic event for an additional ten years."

"This is truly an historic day for the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and the sport of professional rodeo," said PRCA Commissioner Karl Stressman. "The PRCA Board of Directors and this administration has been through a long and at times painful process of due diligence and careful consideration in looking out for the very best interest of every member of this association and this great sport. It hasn't always been easy, but what we're announcing today makes it all worthwhile. We could not be happier, and look forward to working with our partners in Las Vegas on continued growth and prosperity for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo and the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association."

The Wrangler NFR, known as the richest and most prestigious rodeo in the world, has sold out 270 consecutive performances and attracts the top 15 contestants in bareback riding, steer wrestling, team roping, saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping, barrel racing and bull riding. Qualification is based on the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association World Standings. In 2013, the event had a total attendance of 176,558 over the ten days of competition in Las Vegas, resulting in a non-gaming economic impact of $87.9 million for the destination.

"Since 1985, more than one million visitors have traveled to the world's premier destination to experience the energy and excitement of two great brands - Las Vegas and NFR," said Rossi Ralenkotter, president/CEO of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. "This new agreement will ensure NFR and its loyal fans will be back to Las Vegas for another decade of unrivaled experiences."

In 2014, the Wrangler NFR will run from Dec. 4 through 13 at the Thomas & Mack Center.

"We are relieved that we were able to assemble an agreement that both ensures that the Wrangler NFR will remain in Las Vegas for the long term and that all parties will prosper," said Pat Christenson, president of Las Vegas Events. "We look forward to working with all of our partners in growing the NFR Experience for rodeo fans in Las Vegas."

LAS VEGAS - Las Vegas is the place to love and be loved this February. The destination's romantic world-class restaurants, blissful spas, unique exhibits and picturesque wedding chapels will set the mood for the perfect lovers' rendezvous. As love fills the air this Valentine's Day, Las Vegas has all of the answers to help you and your beloved soar to cloud nine.

LOVE MAKES THE WORLD GO ‘ROUND

With love floating in the air during February, Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition atLuxor Hotel and Casino invites guests to share the most romantic day of the year with passengers of the RMS Titanic. Guests can relive stories of marriages that ended before they could develop and unconditional love that never dies with true accounts from people aboard the legendary Ship of Dreams.

Rekindle the passion at The Eiffel Tower Experience at Paris Las Vegas Hotel. The replica Eiffel Tower creates the perfect romantic atmosphere and is an exact reproduction rendered at half scale of one of Europe's most famous landmarks.

YOU COMPLETE ME

Couples looking to seal their vows can do so in the wedding capital of the world. Wynn Las Vegas commemorates Valentine's Day with its Eternally Yours Valentine's Day Wedding Ceremony Package for $1,390. The package includes everything from a professional photo session to a Champagne toast to commemorate the special day.

Those looking to get married in an elegant setting reminiscent of Paris in the 1930s can visit Joël Robuchon Restaurant at MGM Grand Hotel & Casino. Surrounded by a lavish venue designed by award-winning Pierre-Yves Rochon and delectable cuisine created by Chef of the Century Joël Robuchon, couples can experience a once-in-a-lifetime all-inclusive moment for $5,895.

Visitors can also tie the knot at Caesars Palace Las Vegas Hotel & Casino. In honor of Valentine's Day,Caesars Palace is offeringspecial perks tocouples who book a Roman Wedding Package. Couples who book are eligible to receive a $50 food and beverage credit and 15 percent off of additional nights stayed at the hotel.

Lovers can say "I do" at Bellagio. Bellagio's Valentine's Day Package includes everything from wedding photography and videography to gourmet truffles and rose petals for $5,000.

PAMPER YOUR LOVE

Couples looking to be primped and polished for date night can spend the day at the Grand Spa inside MGM Grand Hotel & Casino. The spa offers sweet Valentine's Day treatments and specials through Feb. 28. Guests can indulge in couples "Whoopie Pie" manicures and pedicures, white chocolate raspberry facials, sweet body sugar scrubs and more.

Lovebirds can take flight at JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort & Spa with the Valentine's Day Spa Couple's Package. The hotel package features a deluxe guestroom, red rose turndown, Champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries. Valentines will continue the romantic celebration with a breakfast buffet for two at Ceres Restaurant and one 50-minute Couple's Sampler Massage at Spa Aquae.

YOU HAD ME AT HELLO

Looking to tickle the taste buds? TENDER Steak & Seafood at Luxor Hotel and Casino has crafted a tantalizing four-course menu for two that is sure to captivate the senses of any food aficionado. Visitors hoping for something naughty can venture over to Rice & Company also inside the Luxor Hotel and Casino. The "Naughty and Spice Roll" is sure to heat things up, and comes with a special Wakatake Onikoroshi sake pairing.

Stop by the Monte Carlo Resort and Casino for the ultimate date night. Blue Man Group offers dinner and show packages for starry-eyed lovers. The packages include tickets to Blue Man Group's exhilarating show, dinner at one of the property's delectable restaurants and cocktails at Ignite Lounge. The lounge will be offering two exclusive cocktails on Valentine's Day. The "Raspberry Kiss" and "Elderflower Piscine Fizz" are the perfect potions to any romantic evening.

Couples interested in relaxing and spending an evening in the comfort of their own room can find the perfect match at NOBU Hotel at Caesars Palace. Guests can reserve a special Valentine's Day rate for $275 and indulge in Nobu's exclusive in-room dining for two. The high roller bento box ($220) includes salmon shichimi, Wagyu with truffles, foie gras and spinach dry miso with king crab. Secret off-menu items such as Toro Carpaccio are also available.

End the evening with a slice of delectable tofu cheesecake to share. More exclusive libations can be found at TREVI Italian Restaurant inside The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace. The "Love Potion Number 9" cocktail will be served on Feb. 14 for only $9.

Couples can also check out LAVO Italian Restaurant at The Palazzo Las Vegas for a unique four-course meal that includes special heart shaped lobster ravioli. Special romance-themed menus will also set the mood at Tao Asian Bistro inside The Venetian, 福Fú at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Hofbräuhaus Las Vegas and Pampas Churrascaria Brazilian Grille.

Lovers looking to satisfy a sweet tooth can call "Just a Bite of Cheesecake" for its special Valentine's Day promotion. The package contains an assortment of cakes and cheesecakes with red velvet, chocolate, chocolate mousse and more. The treats are delivered in a unique rose display for $25. Deliveries are free of charge and "Just a Bite Cheesecake" is happy to deliver to guests staying on the Las Vegas Strip. Orders can be placed by calling, 702.683.1171.

]]>http://www.lvcva.com///article/cupid’s-arrow-helps-fuel-romance-and-transforms-las-vegas-into-retreat-for-sweethearts-and-lovers/935/
http://www.lvcva.com/article/las-vegas-slam-dunk-college-basketball/1002/
http://www.lvcva.com//press-room/press-releases/?show=rss
LVCVA Press Releasesen-usTHE YEAR OF THE HORSE RIDES INTO LAS VEGAS WITH WORLD-CLASS FESTIVITIESMon, 13 Jan 2014 00:00:00Unrivaled Cultural Celebrations among Highlights for Ushering in the Chinese New Year

LAS VEGAS - Las Vegas will celebrate Chinese New Year, Jan. 31 - Feb. 16 with a dazzling collection of symbolic décor, traditional Chinese cuisine and activities to commemorate the Year of the Horse. This year's Chinese zodiac sign is significant because it is believed to bring fortune and good luck. The Year of the Horse is also an excellent year for travel, making Las Vegas the ideal destination to celebrate.

Festive Décor & Entertainment

Starting Jan. 11, the Conservatory & Botanical Gardens at Bellagio will display a new exhibit with a fabricated three-tier mountain featuring eight massive stallions - as the number eight represents good luck. The East Garden will feature a prosperous money tree with oversized gold coins hanging from branches. Live performances of traditional folk and pop music with authentic Chinese instruments including the erhu (二胡), ruan (阮), and pipa (琵琶) will take place in the serene South Garden from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. daily. The conservatory design will be guided by Feng Shui with the exhibit on display till March 1.

Wynn Las Vegas will unveil three, 800-pound Tang Dynasty horse sculptures on Jan. 9. The 9-foot-tall, 10-foot-long horses were created by master sculptor Sillipachai "Mod" Toonrud of FORTE Specialty Contractors in Las Vegas, and will be painted red and gilded in gold leaf. The sculptures will be on display through Feb. 14.

"PANDA!" takes the stage at The Palazzo Las Vegas, Jan. 7 to Feb. 28 for a limited engagement. Audience members will go on an epic journey as the show follows the heroic quest of LongLong, a warm and caring panda, on an adventurous mission to rescue his beloved Peacock Princess who was kidnapped on their wedding day.

Singer Hacken Lee will perform live at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace, Feb. 7-8. The show starts at 8 p.m., and will feature hit songs from his last decade of music.

Downtown Festivities

This year, The Smith Center for the Performing Arts offers two special shows that will highlight the spirit of Chinese New Year. On Feb. 16 at 7:30 p.m. "TAO: Phoenix Rising" takes the stage with a night of Taiko drumming and innovative choreography. Then Shen Yun performs from Feb. 21-23. This show brings to life 5,000 years of Chinese civilization through classical Chinese dance and music in an exhilarating performance you will never forget.

The Fremont Street Experience will host "Chinese New Year In the Desert" Feb. 7-9. Kicking off the weekend of celebration is the opening ceremony on Friday, Feb. 7 at 6:30 p.m., followed by a concert series with special guests Victoria Wei Zhong and Henry Chuc. Other notable events include the Lotus Flowering/Thai Folk Dance, Muay Thai Exhibition and a special concert series on Saturday, Feb. 8. The Chinese New Year parade takes place on Sunday, Feb. 9 at 11 a.m. and starts at 4th Street, from Gass Ave. to Ogden. The festivities continue on Fremont Street Experience with performances by the Tendo Baikoki Cultural Dance Group, Las Vegas Hawaiian Civic Club Choral Group and a dazzling concert featuring Gloria Papin. Fremont Street Experience will host nightly lion dances performed by Lohan School of Shaolin taking place on the 3rd Streed Stage.

Lion & Dragon Dances

Traditional Dragon and Lion Dances will take place throughout the destination to celebrate the Year of the Horse. Performances will include:

Jan. 31 - 3 p.m. at The Venetian Las Vegas: Atraditional Dragon dance and eye painting ceremony with firecrackers and festive decorations to celebrate the Chinese New Year

Jan. 31 - 6 p.m. at MGM Grand: Lion-dancing pioneers Yau Kung Moon will perform a traditional Chinese lion dance that starts at the main lobby and carries through the casino

Feb. 1 - 4 p.m. at Bellagio: A lion and dragon will prance their way through Bellagio's Porte Cochère welcoming guests

Feb. 1 - 6 p.m. at Wynn Las Vegas: Guests can experience the traditional dragon dance, which will start at South Valet at Wynn. The parade will wind through the Wynn Casino before making its way to Encore. The procession will feature a 90-foot-long-dragon, eight lions, firecrackers and special acrobatic performance

This year's impressive array of exquisite décor and lively entertainment will be joined by a number of restaurants on and off Strip that are preparing special menus and dishes for the holiday celebration. Some of this year's festive Asian menus include Dragon Noodle Co. & Sushi Bar at Monte Carlo, which will feature a lucky $29.00 dinner with three dishes. The meal includes gong hei fat choy 恭喜發財 (braised dried oyster and black moss with oyster sauce), ha ha smile 呵呵笑 (manila clam with black bean sauce), and Budda delight 羅漢齋 (Chinese Napa, bean thread, black fungus, black moss, snow peas and Chinese mushroom).

Rice & Company at Luxor Hotel and Casino will tempt your taste buds with a four-course meal that features signature selections, including the wicked roll, egg drop soup, kung pao chicken, beef and broccoli, and garlic shrimp with vegetables. The meal ends with the dessert duo of exotic fruits and berries with chocolate passion.

Guests looking for authentic Asian fare may visit Wynn Las Vegas' Wing Lei, for a dim sum lunch buffet from Jan. 30 to Feb. 9. The newly remodeled restaurant will allow guests to indulge in dozens of small delicacies, daily from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Tea lovers will be excited to hear that Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas is celebrating Chinese New Year in their stunning Tea Lounge. Chinese New Year-inspired pastries, handmade fortune cookies and the traditional Chinese coin in an authentic red envelope will be the highlights of
the traditional tea ceremony. Afternoon tea service will be served by staff trained in the art of the traditional Chinese Tea Ceremony and are delighted to share the history of Chinese New Year with guests. Specialty menus are also available at MOzen Bistro and Mandarin Bar.

Delectable Chinese New Year menus will also be available at FINat The Mirage,The Grand Wok and Sushi Bar and Pearl at MGM Grand.

A special Lunar New Year menu is also being planned at Ming's inside Harrah's Las Vegas Hotel & Casino, Nobu at Nobu Hotel inside Caesars Palace along with Beijing Noodle No. 9 and Express Court at Caesars Palace.

Concerned about how to get around town? The Las Vegas Monorail will be offering a $24 3-day pass discount, allowing you to celebrate Chinese New Year and navigate the destination with ease. Just use the promo code: "CNY14" at their station kiosks or at their website at http://www.lvmonorail.com/.

]]>http://www.lvcva.com///article/the-year-of-the-horse-rides-into-las-vegas-with-world-class-festivities/934/
http://www.lvcva.com/article/las-vegas-slam-dunk-college-basketball/1002/
http://www.lvcva.com//press-room/press-releases/?show=rss
LVCVA Press Releasesen-usWorld Trade Center LV Partners With World Trade Center Mexico CityMon, 06 Jan 2014 00:00:00
LAS VEGAS -The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) and the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)® announce a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the World Trade Center Las Vegas and the World Trade Center Mexico City to enhance international business relationships. The agreement encourages Las Vegas and Mexico City to co-market under the World Trade Center brand creating access to key trade information and market research, and facilitate business trade missions around the world.

The World Trade Centers Association encourages mutual assistance and cooperation among its members. In 2010, CEA was granted the rights to the World Trade Center Las Vegas license and partnered with the LVCVA to attract more international visitors and trade events to Las Vegas.

"We are thrilled to continue our successful partnership with the LVCVA and the World Trade Center Las Vegas mark by expanding it internationally," said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO of the Consumer Electronics Association, the organization that manages and produces the International CES. "Together we have focused the world's companies on the many opportunities to do business in Las Vegas. Now we are expanding our international business connections with this new partnership with Mexico City, which will strengthen not only the robust CES attendance from Mexico but also the continued business exchange between Las Vegas and Mexican executives."

By seeking formal business relationships with other World Trade Centers in global cities, the LVCVA and CEA can create and solidify international business connections. Mexico is an important country to both CES and Las Vegas. Mexican attendance to CES has grown 20-percent over the past three years, and Mexico is the number two source of international visitors to Las Vegas.

"For the Mexico City World Trade Center and the International Exposition and Convention Center WTC, this is a unique opportunity to develop a mutually beneficial relationship between two great business and tourism cities," said Edward Kelley, General Director of the WTC Mexico City. "It's also extremely gratifying to be invited to participate in the 2014 International CES and have the CEA join in this international initiative. This is what being part of the World Trade Centers Association can be if the members are willing to work together."

Attracting international visitors is a critical growth market for Las Vegas. Right now, 17-percent, or nearly seven million of all Las Vegas visitors are international travelers, and during the next decade, the LVCVA's goal is to increase that figure to 30 percent.

"Partnerships like this will help further position Las Vegas as a global business destination by leveraging the strength of the Las Vegas brand with the opportunities provided through the World Trade Center designation." said Rossi Ralenkotter, president/CEO of the LVCVA. "These opportunities are critical as we move forward with plans for the Las Vegas Global Business District, a transformation project that includes major renovations to the Las Vegas Convention Center including construction of a World Trade Center building."

Las Vegas is the only destination in North America with a World Trade Center designation on the campus of a convention center. The LVCVA also has a Memorandum of Understanding with the U.S. Department of Commerce's International Trade Administration to promote travel and tourism exports.

The stations were made possible through a $50,000 grant made earlier this year by the Consumer Electronics Association, (CEA)®, owner and producer of the International CES®, the world's largest annual innovation event. As part of International CES, which is held every January at the Las Vegas Convention Center, CEA provides funding to local organizations to advance clean energy and sustainable living.

"CEA has been a great partner with the Las Vegas community throughout its 35+ years in the destination," said Terry Jicinsky, the LVCVA's senior vice president of operations. "We're proud to be able to offer visitors another green option at the Las Vegas Convention Center while also representing the innovation and ingenuity in the consumer electronics industry."

"The International CES is proud and thankful to call Las Vegas and the Las Vegas Convention Center home, and we at CEA are committed to helping Las Vegas be green," said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO, CEA. "These electric vehicle charging stations will benefit Las Vegas for years to come."

Located in the Gold parking lot next to the Visitor Information Center, these are the first electric vehicle charging stations at the convention center and will be used as a prototype for future stations as the demand increases. The level 2 universal chargers have an amperage of 40A and voltage of 208/240VAC. The covered charging stations are provided as a complimentary service to visitors.

CES returns to Las Vegas January 7-10, 2014, bringing an estimated 155,000 delegates and generating nearly $195 million in local non-gaming economic impact. Las Vegas' meeting and convention industry supports 58,000 local jobs and generates more than $6.8 billion for the local economy.

ABOUT CEA
The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the technology trade association representing the $203 billion U.S. consumer electronics industry. More than 2,000 companies enjoy the benefits of CEA membership, including legislative advocacy, market research, technical training and education, industry promotion, standards development and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA also owns and produces the International CES - The Global Stage for Innovation. All profits from CES are reinvested into CEA's industry services. Find CEA online at www.CE.org, www.DeclareInnovation.com and through social media.

LAS VEGAS - Las Vegas and the Clark County Department of Aviation will host top aviation executives from around the world at the 19th Annual International Aviation Forecast Summit. Boyd Group International, an aviation research, forecast and consulting firm, has selected Las Vegas for the annual conference, scheduled for Aug. 24-26 at Wynn Las Vegas.

"Las Vegas was built to host people, and we are ready to showcase the energy and excitement of the destination to the world's aviation leaders," said Rossi Ralenkotter, President/CEO of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. "Las Vegas is the perfect setting to discuss the future of the industry and delegates attending the Boyd Group International Aviation Forecast Summit will see first-hand the investment and business activity taking place in the destination."

"The Clark County Department of Aviation looks forward to hosting our industry peers and partners, and showcasing all that our great community has to offer, when Las Vegas welcomes the Boyd Group International Aviation Forecast Summit next summer," said Director Rosemary
Vassiliadis.

The Boyd Group International Aviation Forecast Summit will highlight many current issues facing the aviation industry, including traffic forecasts that will impact the future of aviation, global airline fleet demand, and aviation industry trends. Summit organizers expect several hundred airline and airport executives to attend the conference, along with other leaders from the aviation industry. The Summit's unique discussion format allows attendees to interact with industry CEOs and high level executives.

"We are excited to be bringing the #1 international aviation forecast event to the world's most exciting destination," said Michael Boyd, president of Boyd Group International. "We're looking
forward to bringing together industry leaders from across the globe to Las Vegas to explore the future of aviation."

]]>http://www.lvcva.com///article/las-vegas-selected-as-host-destination-for-2014-boyd-group-international-aviation-forecast-summit/930/
http://www.lvcva.com/article/las-vegas-slam-dunk-college-basketball/1002/
http://www.lvcva.com//press-room/press-releases/?show=rss
LVCVA Press Releasesen-usLAS VEGAS HOSTS THE ULTIMATE NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION AND GIVES VISITORS AN INCENTIVE TO START A RESOLUTIONWed, 04 Dec 2013 00:00:00Experience America's Party in the Entertainment Capital of the World and Ring in 2014 with a Rockin' Countdown, Over-the-Top Fireworks Display, Culinary Creations, Champagne and More

LAS VEGAS - Las Vegas is the place to be for the ultimate New Year's Eve celebration, with spectacular and stunning experiences across the Strip and beyond. America's Party will have one of the largest pyrotechnic firework shows in the world along with impressive nightclub parties and concerts by A-list performers for an extraordinary rendezvous, along with decadent culinary offerings from world-class chefs. Everyone can find an extraordinary way to ring in 2014 in the destination.

Fireworks Light Up the Sky

Ring out the old and ring in the new by watching a stunning fireworks display in the sky above the famed Las Vegas Strip. The dazzling pyrotechnics show launches from the rooftops of seven resorts along the iconic boulevard: MGM Grand Hotel & Casino, ARIA Resort & Casino, Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, Caesars Palace, Treasure Island (TI), The Venetian Resort-Hotel-Casino and the Stratosphere.

The highly anticipated America's Party is hosted by Las Vegas Events (LVE) and the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) with the fireworks display being produced by world-renowned Fireworks by Grucci of New York. The 8 minute and 12 second show will light up the night's sky with more than 88,000 fireworks.

Concerts & Entertainment

GRAMMY Award-winning group, Maroon 5, will toast 2014 with two shows at the Mandalay Bay Events Center on Dec. 30 and 31. Both shows start at 8 p.m. and open with special guests, A Great Big World and Rozzi Crane.

Bruno Mars takes the stage for an unforgettable performance at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. Mars will perform at The Chelsea on Dec. 29 and 31 with the celebration beginning at 9 p.m. each night.

Britney Spears will leave fans wanting more on New Year's Eve weekend with the premier of her show, "Piece of Me" at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Tickets are available for shows on Dec. 27, 28 and 30 along with Britney's special performance on New Year's Eve that kicks off at 10 p.m. Fans will experience all their favorite songs plus new tracks from Britney's eighth studio album.

The Pearl Concert Theatre inside Palms Casino Resort welcomes Robin Thicke to Las Vegas on Dec. 29. Tickets are available for the concert that starts at 8 p.m.

Celine Dion rings in the New Year with her fans at Caesars Palace inside The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. This masterful and iconic show starts at 7:30 p.m.

The Fremont Street Experience will rock in 2014 with their Downtown Countdown New Year's Eve celebration that takes place from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. This street party includes non-stop music from co-headliners Blues Traveler, Loverboy and Vince Neil. The Downtown Countdown also includes a 2013 year-in-review retrospective on the Viva Vision screen.

The Smith Center for the Performing Arts will be filled with the beautiful voice of Kristen Chenoweth on Dec. 31. This unique night begins at 7:30 p.m. and promises to take concert-goers on a ride of laughter, heartbreak, thrills and great music.

Music sensations Tony Orlando and Wes Winters come together in the Grand Ballroom at South Point Hotel & Casino for a memorable night beginning at 8 p.m.

The Pointer Sisters will regale guests with their classic hits at the Eastside Cannery for a special performance with doors opening at 8:30 p.m.

The Blue Man Group offers two special New Year's Eve shows at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Monte Carlo.

Cirque du Soleil offers guests a special treat to ring in the New Year. Show times are: KÀ at MGM Grand at 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.; Zumanity at New York New York Hotel & Casino at 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.; MJ One at Mandalay Bay Hotel & Casino at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.; Mystère at Treasure IslandHotel & Casino at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.; Zarkana at ARIA at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.; The Beatles LOVE at The Mirage Hotel & Casino at 4:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and "O" at Bellagio at 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Perched high above Las Vegas Boulevard, guests can lace up their ice skates for a winter treat on New Year's Eve. The Ice Rink at Boulevard Pool at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas will feature a live stream of Bruno Mars' concert from the new performance center, The Chelsea. Guests can also enjoy an open bar along with a spectacular view of the Strip's midnight fireworks. Guests can hit the ice from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.

The Mandarin Bar, Tea Lounge and Sky Lobby at Mandarin Oriental will host a New Year's Eve Gala featuring extraordinary décor, live music, spacious dance floor and multi-colored floor-to-ceiling windows framing the fireworks across the city skyline. The gala begins at 9 p.m. and is
complimentary to hotel guests.

Join the LVH for the "Legendary New Year's Eve Extravaganza" that includes four separate parties, all with free admission to the public. Guests are encouraged to move from party to party, which include a classic rock band, two island-style bands and Top 40 music. The first party gets started at 8 p.m. in the Shimmer Cabaret.

Dance your way into 2014 at Hard Rock Café with rock, hip-hop and mashup tunes. A hosted bar and appetizers are available when the party gets started at 9 p.m.

Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville at Flamingo Las Vegas will open its doors to guests starting at 9 p.m. The party includes open bar, appetizers and live entertainment.

Call out your lucky numbers on New Year's Eve for a chance to win $25,000. South Point Hotel & Casino offers bingo with champagne, hors d'œuvres and party favors. Doors open at 8:30 p.m. with games starting at 10 p.m.

Nightclub Parties

Dance the night away as world-class DJ's keep the party going into the New Year.

Ring in 2014 in high style with a VIP package from Surrender Nightclub inside Encore at Wynn Las Vegas as guests countdown with electronic dance music superstar Diplo. Packages may also include a dinner tasting menu at the adjoining Asian dining hot spot Andrea's. Kaskade will headline at XS Nightclub while Lil Jon will rock Tryst on the biggest party night of the year.

Hakkasan, inside MGM Grand, welcomes Calvin Harris for a special New Year's Eve celebration in the main room while DJ Ross One takes to the turn tables in the Ling Ling Club.

Enjoy heavily passed hors d'oeuvres from 9 p.m. to midnight with a premium open bar from 9 p.m. to 11p.m. at Marquee inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. DJ Chuckie will spin his greatest hits into the early morning hours.

The Bank Nightclub at Bellagio will count down the end of 2013 with a live performance from Common. The two-hour open bar starts at 9 p.m.

Celebrate the most glamorous night of the year with hip-hop sensation J. Cole at 1OAK inside The Mirage Hotel & Casino. Festivities kick off with an open bar at 9 p.m.

Body English, inside the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, hosts an unforgettable night that starts at 9 p.m. with an open bar until 1 a.m. Or relive the era of grunge rock, flannel shirts and ripped jeans with Empire Records' "All 90's Experience" at Vinyl beginning at 9 p.m.

Jeremih has a special live performance planned for guests at Chateau Nightclub & Gardens inside Paris Hotel & Casino. Fans can enjoy an open bar from 9 p.m. until midnight along with electrifying beats that will have partygoers popping bubbly as they kiss 2013 goodbye.

LAVO, inside The Palazzo, welcomes VICE for New Year's Eve. Guests can enjoy a two-hour premium open bar from 9-11 p.m. along with passed hors d'oeuvres. Miguel takes the stage for a live performance at TAO inside The Venetian. Guests will also enjoy a premium open bar and passed hors d'oeuvres starting at 9 p.m.

Indulge in Culinary Creations

Reminisce and spend the final hours of 2013 by indulging in one of Las Vegas' many world-class restaurants.

Treat yourself to an unforgettable meal on New Year's Eve at La Cave Wine and Food Hideaway inside Wynn Las Vegas. The restaurant offers an early seating menu from 5-6:30 p.m. and a late seating menu from 7-10 p.m. Guests will dine on crudo tasting, pumpkin ravioli, beef Wellington, butter-poached lobster tail and the chef's selection of tasting desserts.

A specialty menu will be offered this New Year's Eve at Culinary Dropout inside Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. This à la carte four-course menu includes the restaurant's signature appetizers and antipasti, salads, entrees and desserts.

Tacos & Tequila inside the Luxor Hotel & Casino will celebrate New Year's Eve with an East Coast countdown party featuring the ladies of Fantasy. Drink specials include $14 tequila flights, $5 Dos Equis bottled beer and a $10 beer and shot special.

Sushi lovers can enjoy a six-course omakase menu at Sushi Roku Las Vegas at the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace. Reservations begin at 4 p.m. along with the offering of festival drinks like the Milk & Cookie and Once a Pama Time Cocktails.

Getting around the Strip is easy when you use The Las Vegas Monorail. While New Year's Eve is one of the busiest times of the year and the famed boulevard is closed to automobile transportation, the monorail provides convenient connections to major Strip destinations. For hassle-free transit, visitors can purchase a special three-day pass, valid Dec. 27 to Jan. 1. Riders should use the promo code NYE2013 when purchasing tickets at any Monorail customer service booth.

The event focused on the condition of America's travel infrastructure and how it affects the travel industry's bottom line and its prospects for growth. Transportation delays are a major inconvenience that impacts the visitors' experience and limits their spending.

"To keep the travel industry moving forward, addressing our aging transportation system is a top priority for the industry and Las Vegas," said Ralenkotter. "The CATT conference was a vital conduit for the travel and tourism industry to elevate public policy discussions with business leaders and government officials and advocate for solutions to our transportation challenges."

More than 200 people participated in the event which addressed a variety of topics from new research examining the links between infrastructure investment and growth in the travel sector to the challenges to maintaining and building efficient, connected transportation systems. A panel discussion featured Las Vegas as a national model for how transportation advocates can form new partnerships to achieve greater success in advocating their needs to elected leaders and policy makers.

The event featured a broad spectrum of speakers, including U.S. Secretary of Transportation Anthony Foxx; the Honorable Ray LaHood, the former U.S. Secretary of Transportation; the Honorable Edward G. Rendell, former governor of Pennsylvania who now serves as the co-chair of Building America's Future; Jonathan Tisch, Chairman of Loews Hotels & Resorts; and, Roger Dow of U.S. Travel Association.

The travel industry is a major contributor to the U.S. economy, generating $2 trillion in economic output and supporting 14.6 million American jobs. In Southern Nevada, tourism is the lifeblood of the local economy, supporting 47 percent of the local workforce (383,000 jobs) and generating $45 billion in economic impact.

]]>http://www.lvcva.com///article/las-vegas-leaders-participate-in-first-ever-"connecting-america-through-travel"-conference/926/
http://www.lvcva.com/article/las-vegas-slam-dunk-college-basketball/1002/
http://www.lvcva.com//press-room/press-releases/?show=rss
LVCVA Press Releasesen-usLEGENDARY “WHAT HAPPENS HERE, STAYS HERE” CAMPAIGN CELEBRATES “VEGAS ENABLERS” AND THE PEOPLE WHO PUSH THE BOUNDARIESWed, 13 Nov 2013 00:00:00World-Class Destination Introduces New Take on Classic Slogan with the Launch of TV and interactive Social Extensions

LAS VEGAS (Nov. 13, 2013)-For the first time in the 10 year run of the "What happens here, stays here" campaign, the iconic tagline is taking a new turn. The infamous campaign has always celebrated adult freedom, and the new iteration will champion "Vegas Enablers," those
free-spirited friends who give you permission to have a true "What happens here..." moment during your trip to Las Vegas. A reimagined series of spots launched on Monday Nov. 11, along with the latest round of digital and social installments.

Previously, the Las Vegas ads infamously hid the moments and omitted information that makes the destination unique; however, with the revamped approach, Las Vegas will celebrate the people who create the moments. "Vegas Enablers" are unpredictable, uncontrollable and persuasive. With that, they push others out of their comfort zone, and without them, what happens in Vegas wouldn't happen.

"The ‘What happens here' campaign is so popular because it speaks to the many unique experiences that visitors can have during their trip to Las Vegas," said Cathy Tull, senior vice president of marketing for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA). "With the
"Vegas Enablers" spots, we're exploring for the first time how those memorable moments can happen, especially with the help of that one fearless friend that we all seem to have, the one who encourages us to let our hair down."

The latest TV commercial titled "Unpredictable" is part of the new campaign, which illustrates who "Vegas Enablers" are through a compilation of amusing and boundary-pushing scenarios. Las Vegas will embrace these unofficial ambassadors throughout the campaign.

"Rather than hiding that ‘moment,' we're encouraging visitors to celebrate it and the friend who helped make it happen," said Tull.

The first spot "History of Friendship" broke nationally on Sept. 30 and a second version of this spot titled "Flashback" also launched Monday, Nov. 11, finding the same two boys already in Las Vegas, reflecting on their mischievous childhood together.

Both "Unpredictable" and "History of a Friendship" will run through April 2014.

In addition to new TV spots, Las Vegas also unveiled a new "Vegas Enablers" microsite, enablers.LasVegas.com. The site hosts an engaging quiz where consumers are presented with a series of ten questions, and based on the answers, they are served an "Enabler" score and badge that they can share and compare with friends on social networks. Demonstrating the effectiveness of Las Vegas' social media strategies overall, the brand recently hit the 100,000 follower milestone on Twitter, and surpassed 1.2 million fans on Facebook.

LAS VEGAS-Las Vegas is a world-class vacation destination built on the principle of adult freedom, and no other tagline encapsulates this mentality better than the destination's iconic "What happens here, stays here" advertising campaign. This year marks the 10th anniversary of this award-winning campaign, and this Monday Las Vegas unveiled a reimagined take on the pop culture-entrenched slogan with a variation of the theme titled "Vegas Enablers."

The new campaign launched with "History of Friendship," a story of two boys, one a "Vegas enabler" and one the enabled, who experience hysterical situations throughout their friendship, culminating in Las Vegas. The concept of the campaign is a variation of the original "What happens here" theme and will feature three TV commercials airing through May 2014.

"The ‘What happens here, stays here' campaign strikes an emotional chord with consumers who relate with the notion of adult freedom," said Cathy Tull, senior vice president of marketing for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA). "The campaign has evolved from giving visitors permission to live their fantasies, to a celebration of those who facilitate these experiences-the ‘Vegas Enabler.' Everyone should have a ‘Vegas Enabler' in their life, that person who encourages you to let your hair down, and the new campaign applauds these people."

During the late 1990s, the LVCVA and its agency of record R&R Partners discovered that Las Vegas consumers related to the destination through the human desire for "adult freedom." This allowed the LVCVA and R&R Partners to position the destination as an international brand and not just a travel brand, one of the first destinations ever to do so.

The first TV spots were shot in November 2002 by famed Super Bowl ad director Bryan Buckley. The campaign was set to launch with the sultry "Mistress in Disguise" spot during the 2003 Super Bowl when it was famously rejected by the National Football League (NFL). "Mistress in Disguise" suddenly became "the ad that the NFL doesn't want you to see," sparking media frenzy and garnering more than $6.7 million in publicity for Las Vegas.

In 2004, the LVCVA and R&R Partners won the Brandweek Grand Marketer of the Year Award, the first time an advertising agency has ever won this award with a client. Since then, the campaign has been inducted into the Madison Avenue Advertising Walk of Fame; parodied by "Saturday Night Live"; profiled on the front page of The New York Times; named one of the top 10 best destination marketing campaigns ever by Forbes; and inspired "The Hangover" movie franchise.

Since the campaign's inception, Las Vegas has experienced a nearly 10 percent spike in visitor volume, from more than 35.5 million travelers in 2003 to a record-breaking 39.7 million travelers in 2012. More than $6 billion of reinvestment into the destination is currently underway along the resort corridor, in downtown Las Vegas and by the LVCVA on capital projects set to open over the next decade. While this success cannot be directly linked to the "What happens here, stays here" campaign, there is no denying that this beloved destination moniker has raised the profile of Las Vegas on a global scale.

LAS VEGAS-Las Vegas is the ultimate destination for a monstrous good time this Halloween. As the paranormal takes over, visitors can expect everything except the ordinary throughout October, culminating with the annual Las Vegas Howl-O-Week experience Oct. 25-Nov. 3. The always anticipated Howl-O-Week festivities consist of 10 days filled with haunted ghost tours, parades, parties, costume contests and more.

GHOULS, GHOSTS AND GOBLINS...OH MY!

Fright Dome returns to The Adventuredome at Circus Circus Las Vegas. For more than a decade, Fright Dome has been one of the nation's top-ranked Halloween attractions. Created by "hauntrepreneur" Jason Egan, Fright Dome is 250,000 "scare" feet with six new haunted houses, four scare zones, 25 rides and attractions, nightly live shows and much more. Fright Dome begins Oct. 3 and will continue throughout the month from 7 p.m.-midnight.

The Haunted Ghost Tours at Bonnie Springs Ranch give ghost enthusiasts an authentic paranormal investigation experience. Participants have the opportunity to receive hands-on training with the same equipment featured in popular reality television shows and use it during a live investigation at Bonnie Springs. Bonnie Springs is located near Red Rock Canyon and was featured on Travel Channel's popular show "Ghost Adventures." Investigations happen the last Saturday of every month with an early adventure 7-10 p.m. and a late-night opportunity 10:30 p.m.-midnight. Returning to Bonnie Springs Ranch Oct. 10-31 is Bonnie Screams Wicked West
Haunted Ghost Town. The event is complete with haunted houses, urban legends, film fests and more.

Other bone-chilling experiences that will leave visitors sleeping with the lights on include Freakling Bros. Horror Shows, "Trilogy of Terror." Trilogy of Terror features "Gates of Hell," the only R-rated haunted house in the state of Nevada, and "Circus of Horrors" and "Castle Vampire."

THINGS THAT GO BUMP IN THE NIGHT

For those not afraid of the dark, check out Las Vegas' unique nightlife parties. From super heroes to villains, Tryst at Wynn Las Vegas celebrates comic characters, good and bad, with Hero-Ween, Oct. 24-31. Also at Wynn is XS Nightclub, which will take on the exceptionally chilling theme, XS Apocalypse. This unique celebration, happening Oct. 25-31, will feature famed entertainers Afrojack, Steve Angello, Kaskade and more. Hakkasan at MGM Grand will morph into Forbidden City with three sexy costume contests on Oct. 26, 27 and 31. Participants can
win up to $60,000 in cash prizes and dance the night away with world-famous DJs, including Hardwell, Dada Life, Calvin Harris and others.

The Halloween spirit will be in full swing at Palms Casino Resort. On Oct. 26, Ghostbar Dayclub will host a "Back 2 the Future" themed party and costume contest. Big-City lounge and upscale rec room, The View, will host a "Thriller" B-Boy Battle on Oct. 29, giving away up to $1,500 in cash prizes for first and second place winners. The party continues at Moon Nightclub on Oct. 29 with the Sexy Costume Context. First and second place winners will walk away with $10,000. Don't forget Palms' industry night, "Work Hard Play Hard," on Oct. 31 where the newly renovated Ghostbar will welcome the undead for Zombie Prom. First and second place winners will receive a thrilling $10,000 in cold hard cash.

Next stop is the infamous Fetish & Fantasy Halloween Ballat Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Oct. 29. Party-goers can also stop by the Rock ‘n' Horror ‘80s Halloween Partyat Body English on Oct. 31. The fun doesn't end there; revelers can get their spook on at TAO Nightclub in The Venetian Las Vegas during the WIZard of TAO Halloween party, hosted by hip-hop sensation Wiz Khalifa on Oct. 31.

Fifty one floors above the Las Vegas Strip, VooDoo Rooftop Nightclub at Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino will host a fang-tastic costume party on Oct. 31. Those with the "scariest," "most original" and "sexiest" costumes will head home with $2,000 in cash prizes.

Howl at the moon during Coyote Ugly Saloon's Sexiest Halloween Costume Contest inside New York-New York Hotel & Casino. Participants have the chance to win up to $1,000 in cash and prizes on Oct. 31.

The costume contests continue at Carnaval Court inside Harrah's Las Vegas on Oct. 31 and Nov. 2. A grand total of $10,000 will be given away between the two days to party-goers with the "sexiest" and "most creative" costumes. The party continues with live entertainment, drink specials and more.

DOUBLE, DOUBLE TOIL AND TROUBLE

Opportunity Village is hosting it's first-ever HallOVeen at the Magical Forest, Oct. 4-27. Guests can enjoy the Magical Forest decked out in Halloween finery, including ghouls and goblins beckoning to the rides and attractions, nightly parades, crafts, movies, treats and more. Proceeds support Opportunity Village programs and services for more than 3,000 families in the Las Vegas community.

The Las Vegas Zombie Run is a 5K and 1-mile run/walk to benefit local charity Generation Vegas. The event takes place at Sunset Park, and while the course may seem easy, avoiding the wandering, flesh-starved zombies will present the real challenge. Each runner will wear a flag football-style belt with zombie-enticing flags. If race participants make it through the course with any flags left, they finish "alive." However, if zombies attack and remove all flags, participants finish "undead." The race begins at 9 a.m. on Oct. 27. Participants must register by
Oct. 18.

The Fremont Street Experience will transform into a mecca of thrills for its Fifth Annual OktoberFrightFest, Oct. 7-31. This ghoulish street party will include Viva Vision light and sound shows themed to "Time Warp" and "Monster Mash," the Fourth Annual Fall Beer Festival at Golden Nugget Las Vegas, live musical revues and much more.

Returning to Downtown Las Vegas is theFourth Annual Las Vegas Halloween Parade. Taking place in the esteemed Arts District, the parade includes costume contests, live music and more. The event begins at 7 p.m. on Oct. 31.

]]>http://www.lvcva.com///article/las-vegas-casts-a-spellthis-fall-with-terror-ific-halloween-celebrations/921/
http://www.lvcva.com/article/las-vegas-slam-dunk-college-basketball/1002/
http://www.lvcva.com//press-room/press-releases/?show=rss
LVCVA Press Releasesen-usLas Vegas Marks World Tourism DayThu, 26 Sep 2013 00:00:00
LAS VEGAS - Tourism is the economic driver of the Southern Nevada economy, and water is a precious resource in the region. The LVCVA and the local community will celebrate both on Friday, September 27, with the marking of World Tourism Day, which is themed, "Tourism and Water: Protecting Our Common Future."

World Tourism Day was established by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in 1980 to foster awareness among the international community of the importance of tourism and its social, cultural, political, and economic value.

"We obviously know the value of both tourism and water here in Las Vegas, so it's particularly poignant for us to join in the honoring of World Tourism Day this year," said Oscar B. Goodman, chairman of the Las Vegas Host Committee. "I'll be doing my part by celebrating tourism and conserving water by drinking martinis. We are a very water smart community, and we are proud to be participating in this celebration."

Tourism is the lifeblood of the Southern Nevada economy, generating $45 billion in economic impact and supporting nearly half the jobs in the area (382,000). Nearly 70 percent of room tax generated by guests staying in our resorts goes directly back in to the community, supporting the construction of schools parks and roads to improve our way of life. This year, approximately $340 million in visitor paid room tax revenue will directly benefit Southern Nevada residents. Since 1998, more than $1 billion in room tax has gone toward public education.

Southern Nevada also has a long history of water conscious efforts, particularly in the hotel community. Many of our resorts make conservation a key part of their business plan, with initiatives, such as environmentally friendly and water conscious laundry facilities, policies encouraging guests to conserve water by re-using bedding and towels for more than one day, low flow bathroom fixtures, desert landscaping, and even using non-potable or recycled water for water features and landscape watering.

"Resorts use only about 3 percent of our water supply, yet our business community is committed to water efficiency. Industries participating in the SNWA's Water Efficient Technologies Program have saved our community more than 1.75 billion gallons of water. As part of the Water Conservation Coalition, businesses also have joined together to help retrofit underprivileged communities and aging schools with water-efficient fixtures and landscaping," said Pat Mulroy, general manager of the Southern Nevada Water Authority and the Las Vegas Valley Water District.

Southern Nevada also features several natural water attractions. Lake Mead and the Colorado River provide residents and visitors to the area a respite from the heat and the opportunity to enjoy their favorite water activities. And the Springs Preserve provides a historical and natural look at water's role in the area, and will be hosting a special lecture series in honor of World Tourism Day on September 27, featuring several discussions on the importance of water and conservation efforts.

The LVCVA encourages everyone to join in the celebration of World Tourism Day through your social media outlets by sharing you and your company's efforts to conserve water. Use the hashtag #WTD2013 on Twitter and share your photos with the UNWTO for their photo competition at www.wtd.unwto.org.

LAS VEGAS - As summer draws to a close, Las Vegas offers its guests one last "hurrah" with star-studded Labor Day weekend festivities. From pool parties presided over by Diddy to nightlife driven by the sounds of electronic veteran Moby to concert headliner Brad Paisley, what better place is there than Las Vegas to celebrate the federal holiday that recognizes the contributions of American workers? In fact, CheapOair announced last Thursday that airfare purchases to the "Entertainment Capital of the World" are up 24 percent, making it the most popular destination for Labor Day travel.

Throughout the summer, Fremont Street Experience has provided the ultimate nirvana for rock music fans with an exciting lineup of performances for the "Rock of Vegas" summer concert series. The culminating performance will be Saturday, Aug. 31 with headliners Puddle of Mudd. Shows are open to the public, free of charge and take place at the Third Street Stage.

GRAMMY Award-winning hip-hop icon Lil Wayne will bring his high-energy, eye-popping show to the MGM Grand Garden Arena Saturday, Aug. 31. The concert, which supports Lil Wayne's 10th studio album "I Am Not A Human Being 2," includes Tip "T.I." Harris and Future.

Country Music Association (CMA) and Academy of Country Music (ACM) Award-winner Brad Paisley will return to Las Vegas with his "Beat This Summer Tour" Saturday, Aug. 31 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center. Paisley, a CMA Entertainer of the Year and Grand Ole Opry member, is a consummate singer, songwriter, guitarist and entertainer. He has earned three GRAMMY Awards, 14 ACM Awards and 14 CMA Awards, including Male Vocalist of the Year a record-setting five consecutive times. The musician's eighth studio album, "Wheelhouse," was released earlier this year.

Ron White, best known as the cigar smoking, scotch drinking funnyman from the "Blue Collar Comedy Tour," will perform in the Terry Fator Theatre at The Mirage Saturday, Aug. 31 and Sunday, Sept. 1. White has established himself as a star in his own right with multiple comedy albums and videos including "Drunk In Public," "They Call Me Tater Salad" and "You Can't Fix Stupid."

Black Sabbath, the group that helped define heavy metal with releases such as the quadruple-platinum album "Paranoid," will take the stage at the MGM Grand Garden Arena Sunday, Sept. 1. The group was ranked by MTV as the "Greatest Metal Band" of all time and placed second on VH1's list of "100 Greatest Artists of Hard Rock." Additionally, Rolling Stone magazine ranked Black Sabbath among the 100 greatest artists of all-time. The band has sold more than 15 million records in the United States and more than 70 million records worldwide. Black Sabbath was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2006.

Popular reggae musician Ziggy Marley will perform at Mandalay Bay Beach Sunday, Sept. 1. Marley, the oldest son of music legend Bob Marley, made his recording debut in 1979 with a group comprised of his father and three siblings. The group became known as The Melody Makers and released 14 albums over three decades. Ziggy Marley began his solo career in 2003 when he released "Dragonfly" on Ghetto Youths Crew, a record label he created while working with the United Nations. In 2006, he released his second solo album, "Love Is My Religion," which won a GRAMMY Award for Best Reggae Album. His third solo album, "Family Time," was released in 2009 and was dedicated to all of the children in the world.

Joe Satriani has been an unstoppable force on the music scene for more than 27 years. The guitar great will perform at The Pearl at Palms Casino Resort Friday, Aug. 30. The tour, supporting his latest album "Unstoppable Momentum," features veteran band mate Mike Keneally (Frank Zappa, Steve Vai) on keyboards, along with a new rhythm-section, featuring bassist Bryan Beller (Dethklok, Dweezil Zappa) and drummer Marco Minnemann (Adrian Belew, Steve Wilson).

GRAMMY Award-winners Earth, Wind & Fire will perform at The Venetian Friday, Aug. 30 as part of the HSN Live concert series. Supporting the group's newest album "Now, Then & Forever," which will be released on HSN on Sept. 10, the concert will be a 90-minute live show, with 60 minutes on HSN TV, followed by a special 30-minute encore performance that streams live across HSN's digital platforms.

AIR TRICKS AND BOGEYS

Insert Coin(s) Videolounge Gamebar, an interactive nightlife venue that is home to thousands of modern and retro games will host the second annual Hometown Heroes BMX Exhibition street party Sunday, Sept. 1, which will benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Nevada. With the streets of Fremont East as its backdrop, the event will be hosted by BMX pro and MTV reality star Ricardo Laguna and feature BMX riding from local amateurs and talented professionals, as well as chances to win several coveted raffle prizes.

Golf Summerlin, home to three pristine courses, will entice golf enthusiasts with a holiday weekend at Highland Falls, Palm Valley or Eagle Crest. For $45 per round or $85 per person for unlimited golf Friday, Aug. 30 through Monday, Sept. 2, Las Vegas locals and visitors are welcome to take advantage of the savings.

]]>http://www.lvcva.com///article/las-vegas-is-no.-1-destination-for-labor-day-weekend-travel/917/
http://www.lvcva.com/article/las-vegas-slam-dunk-college-basketball/1002/
http://www.lvcva.com//press-room/press-releases/?show=rss
LVCVA Press Releasesen-usLAS VEGAS CONVENTION CENTER RECEIVES $20 MILLION IN CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTSFri, 16 Aug 2013 00:00:00
LAS VEGAS -The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) has completed $20 million in recent improvements to the Las Vegas Convention Center. The LVCVA implemented the changes, which are designed to enhance the customer experience, to the 3.2 million-square-foot facility over the past two years while working around shows and events in the building.

"The Las Vegas Convention Center is home to many of the top trade shows in the country," said Terry Jicinsky, senior vice president of operations for the LVCVA. "It is important to keep the facility fresh and offer its more than a million yearly guests the convenience that will make conducting business in Las Vegas a success."

The first noticeable change is the façade of the Las Vegas Convention Center. Two different shades of gray paint now cover the once mauve exterior to create a more modern look. In addition, the Green Parking Lot has been expanded adding more than eight acres to the lot near Desert Inn Road and Swenson. Designs are underway on two more parking lots to allow for more convenience and access.

Inside, more than one million square feet of new red carpet has been installed. The lighting has also been upgraded in the Central and North Halls. The new fixtures deliver up to 20 percent more light with 42 percent less energy. The interior has also been painted.

In a worldwide first, Starbucks has added a double sided counter inside its recently expanded store. Being able to serve the customers from both side of the counter has resulted
in faster service.

American Express has opened its OPEN Business Lounge inside the main entrance of the Las Vegas Convention Center. The 3,400 square-foot lounge serves American Express OPEN card members and new applicants and offers refreshments, free WiFi, computer and printer access, and seating for meetings or relaxation. It is the first OPEN Business Lounge on the West Coast.

All of the recent improvements will be integrated into future plans for Las Vegas Global Business District, an overarching vision for the Las Vegas Convention Center and the surrounding area. The $2.5 billion Global Business District will create an international business destination by incorporating major renovations of the Las Vegas Convention Center, leveraging the World Trade Center designation and developing transportation connectivity through a centralized hub.

The Las Vegas Convention Center, located adjacent to the Las Vegas Strip, is one of the largest convention centers in the country. It hosts an average of sixty meetings, events, conventions and trade shows a year, with more than 1.2 million visitors. Nearly 14,000 local jobs are supported by events held at the Las Vegas Convention Center, which generate more than $1.6 billion in local economic impact. Trade Show News Network has named Las Vegas as the top trade show destination in North America for nineteen consecutive years, hosting 53 the top 250 shows in 2012.

LAS VEGAS - The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) has announced that it will offer a special reward points program for travel agents. The extension to the "Cash in on Vegas" booking incentive will allow retail travel agents to have the opportunity to accrue points for every room night booked in Las Vegas.

"We are delighted to announce that we will be adding a rewards program to the 'Cash in on Vegas' promotion," said Art Jimenez, senior director of leisure sales. "It is a terrific opportunity to allow travel agents to reward themselves with their favorite merchandise and Las Vegas activities."

From July 1, 2013 to July 31, 2014, travel agents may submit eligible bookings online at http://www.trackmylasvegasbookings.com/. To be eligible, bookings must include hotel accommodations bundled with air or land only in Clark County, Nevada and complete travel between July 1, 2013 and August 31, 2014.

For each valid room night booked in Las Vegas, each retail travel agent will accrue 100 points in his/her program account. The points accrued in the agent's program account may be redeemed for hotel accommodations, show tickets or activities provided by select merchants.

Additionally the "Cash in on Vegas" booking incentive will still offer top-selling travel agents the chance to qualify to win their share of $60,000. Prizes will be rewarded monthly by random drawing. Cash cards will be provided in the amounts of $1,000 for the winner, $750 for second, $500 for third, $150 for fourth and 25 $100 randomly drawn winners.

Participation in the Rewards program is open to all U.S. and Canada travel agencies and agents operating under a current and legitimate ARC, IATA, CLIA, or TRUE number. For a complete list of terms and conditions, visit http://www.trackmylasvegasbookings.com/.

LAS VEGAS - After hosting a record-breaking IPW event this week, the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) and U.S. Travel Association have announced IPW, the travel industry's premier international marketplace and the largest generator of travel to the U.S., will return to Las Vegas in 2020.

"We plan on breaking more IPW records in 2020 by bringing even more international delegates and media to Las Vegas than ever before," said Clark County Commissioner Tom Collins, chairman of the LVCVA Board of Directors. "As the Entertainment Capital of the World, the energy and excitement that can only be found in Las Vegas is a huge draw for the delegates of IPW as seen by the records we set this week."

The U.S. Travel Association announced record-setting attendance at the 2013 IPW marketplace, with more than 6,000 delegates from the U.S. and 70 other countries, 1,300 exhibitor booths, 1,300 international and domestic buyers and nearly 500 media. Las Vegas was well represented at IPW with 230 representatives from 90 Southern Nevada companies participating. The event is expected to generate more than $3.5 billion in future travel to the U.S., with an estimated $350 million of that coming to Las Vegas over the next three years, according to U.S. Travel. In addition, this year's event is estimated to generate nearly $8 million in nongaming economic impact for Las Vegas.

"IPW is a tremendous opportunity to showcase Las Vegas to the world, and we delivered an event that set the benchmark higher than ever," said Las Vegas Mayor Carolyn G. Goodman, member of the LVCVA Board of Directors. "The collaborative efforts by all the partners involved were a key ingredient to our success."

As the host city for IPW, Las Vegas receives tremendous exposure with travel buyers from across the globe. Las Vegas is a key destination for international travelers. Currently, 17 percent of Las Vegas visitors are international, and during the next decade, the LVCVA's goal is to increase the number to 30 percent. International visitors stay longer and spend more money, generating approximately $7.6 billion for our local economy and supporting nearly 66,000 local jobs.

"Hosting IPW 2013 has been incredibly significant to MGM Resorts International and Las Vegas, as international visitation becomes more and more important to this destination," said Chuck Bowling, president and chief operating officer of Mandalay Bay. "We have booked business, made new relationships and strengthened existing ones. We are thrilled to know now we'll have this important group back in 2020 and will look forward to once again rolling out the red carpet."

The travel and tourism industry is the lifeblood of Las Vegas' economy, supporting nearly 383,000 jobs and generating more than $45 billion in local economic impact. Las Vegas hosted a record 39.7 million visitors in 2012.

"As host for IPW, Las Vegas provides travel decision makers and influential stakeholders the opportunity to experience the very best the destination has to offer," said Tom Jenkin, president of operations for Caesars Entertainment Corporation. "Such memorable experiences help keep Las Vegas top of mind when it comes time for them to recommend travel and meeting destinations to their clients. IPW 2013 also has allowed Caesars Entertainment to showcase our newest projects, from the LINQ and Las Vegas High Roller to Nobu Hotel at Caesars Palace as well as The Quad and Gansevoort Las Vegas, to key constituencies that can generate future business for our company."

Hosting industry events such as IPW is part of the LVCVA's strategy to showcase the destination and its continuous evolution. Since the last IPW in 2008, more than $26 billion has been invested into the destination. By the time IPW returns in 2020, billions more will have been spent on new resorts, attractions and the LVCVA's Las Vegas Global Business District.

IPW 2020 will be the fifth time Las Vegas has served as host city. Las Vegas hosted IPW in 1982, 1989, 2008 and 2013.

]]>http://www.lvcva.com///article/u.s.-travel-association's-ipw-to-return-to-las-vegas-in-2020/905/
http://www.lvcva.com/article/las-vegas-slam-dunk-college-basketball/1002/
http://www.lvcva.com//press-room/press-releases/?show=rss
LVCVA Press Releasesen-usDEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH LAS VEGAS CONVENTION AND VISITORS AUTHORITYTue, 11 Jun 2013 00:00:00
LAS VEGAS - The Department of Commerce's International Trade Administration (ITA) and the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) are joining forces to promote travel and tourism exports. Acting Deputy Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade Kenneth Hyatt today joined Clark County Commissioner Tom Collins, Chairman of the LVCVA Board of Directors, and LVCVA President/CEO Rossi Ralenkotter to sign a Trade Promotion Partner Memorandum of Agreement between ITA and the LVCVA to become a strategic partner of ITA's U.S. & Foreign Commercial Service.

"LVCVA and ITA share a common mission to increase travel and tourism in the United States in order to boost our economy and create jobs," said Hyatt. "I am pleased to commemorate our new partnership that will be instrumental in helping the Southern Nevada region increase the number of international visitors it attracts."

The partnership brings together the expertise of the ITA and the LVCVA to help Southern Nevada businesses engage in more activities to strengthen Nevada's tourism sector and to increase the U.S. market share of worldwide travel. Additionally, the partnership will promote international travel to the United States and help advance President Obama's National Travel and Tourism Strategy. The LVCVA, which operates the nation's only convention center designated as a World Trade Center and one of the largest convention centers in the United States, will build awareness about the importance of tourism through outreach at trade shows. LVCVA will also host a series of international matchmaking events designed to increase the number international buyers attending trade shows in Las Vegas.

President Obama's National Travel and Tourism Strategy aims to attract and welcome 100 million international visitors annually to the United States by the end of 2021. These visitors are estimated to spend more than $250 billion. The strategy also maps out what the government can and will do to enable job growth in the travel and tourism industry.

"Partnerships like the one signed today are greatly important in helping us all work together to reach the goal laid out by President Obama," Hyatt said.

Las Vegas is a key destination for international travelers. Currently, 17 percent of visitors are international, and during the next decade, the LVCVA's goal is to increase the number to 30 percent. The travel and tourism industry is the state's number one industry, supporting almost 450,000 jobs in Nevada with more than $56.5 billion in visitor spending annually. Las Vegas hosted a record 39.7 million visitors in 2012, and hosted more than 21,000 meetings and conventions. The Trade Show News Network ranked Las Vegas the No. 1 trade show destination in North American for the 19th consecutive year this spring.

"Tourism drives the economic vitality of Las Vegas and supports nearly half of all the jobs in Southern Nevada," said Commissioner Collins. "The business community understands the importance of the industry."

"Partnerships like this will help us achieve our goal of 30 percent market share of overall visitation to Las Vegas," said Ralenkotter. "We will leverage the strength of the Las Vegas brand and the Las Vegas Convention Center's World Trade Center designation to further position Las Vegas as a global business destination and capitalize on opportunities to expand America's number one service export - travel and tourism."

A key component of the United States export success, travel and tourism accounted for a 27 percent of all services exports and 8 percent of all U.S. exports in 2012.

"These statistics show how vitally important travel and tourism is to the economic well-being of the United States. I am pleased to represent the Department of Commerce at IPW and to witness the signing of this important partnership," said Hyatt.

]]>http://www.lvcva.com///article/department-of-commerce-announces-partnership-with-las-vegas-convention-and-visitors-authority/904/
http://www.lvcva.com/article/las-vegas-slam-dunk-college-basketball/1002/
http://www.lvcva.com//press-room/press-releases/?show=rss
LVCVA Press Releasesen-usLVCVA RECEIVES TOP HONOR FOR FINANCIAL REPORTINGFri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00National award is highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting

LAS VEGAS - The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) has been awarded a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) for its comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR). The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management. This is the 29th consecutive year the LVCVA has received this honor.

The CAFR was judged by an impartial panel to meet the high standards of the program, including demonstrating a constructive "spirit of full disclosure" to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate potential users and user groups to read the CAFR.

The GFOA is a nonprofit professional association serving approximately 17,500 government finance professionals with offices in Chicago, IL, and Washington, D.C.

LAS VEGAS - For the 19th consecutive year, Las Vegas has maintained its reigning title as the top trade show destination in the country, according to Trade Show News Network's (TSNN) "2012 TSNN Top 250 Trade Shows in the United States" list. Las Vegas hosted 53 of the largest shows, more than the next two competitors combined.

"Las Vegas is honored to be recognized as the No. 1 trade show destination for the 19th year in a row, and we share this achievement with our colleagues in the meetings and convention industry of Las Vegas who make this ranking possible," said Rossi Ralenkotter, president/CEO of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. "The success of Las Vegas is a testament to our ability to provide exceptional customer service and more value for the experience than any other destination."

The coveted list by Tarsus Group represents the top 250 trade shows held in the country last year, ranked by net square footage. The 53 shows in Las Vegas encompassed 20,460,671 million square feet, or 31.2 percent of the total space for all 250 shows. The largest single show was the International CES, held in Las Vegas, at more than 1.8 million net square feet.

"Once again, Las Vegas is the No. 1 destination of the ‘2012 TSNN Top 250 Trade Show List,'" said Rachel Wimberly, president and editor-in-chief of TSNN. "Las Vegas proves year after year the tremendous value it has to offer trade shows that are held there."

The two closest competitors hosted 47 shows combined, with Orlando hosting 27 and Chicago hosting 20. To see the full TSNN list, visit http://www.tsnn.com/toplists-us.

Las Vegas Meetings Snapshot:

Nearly 22,000 meetings in 2012

4.9 million delegates in 2012

$6.7 billion impact to local economy

Supports nearly 57,000 jobs

]]>http://www.lvcva.com///article/once-again-las-vegas-no.-1-trade-show-destination/897/
http://www.lvcva.com/article/las-vegas-slam-dunk-college-basketball/1002/
http://www.lvcva.com//press-room/press-releases/?show=rss
LVCVA Press Releasesen-usLASVEGAS.COM PARTNERS WITH USA TODAY TRAVEL MEDIA GROUP TO LAUNCH EXPERIENCE VEGAS AS FIRST IN TRAVEL EXPERIENCE SERIESMon, 15 Apr 2013 00:00:00
LAS VEGAS - LasVegas.com and USA TODAY Travel Media Group have announced the launch of Experience Travel, a collection of travel planning tools and information to help travelers make the most of their trip by giving them the information they need, personalized to fit their lifestyle. The first in the product portfolio is Experience Las Vegas, found at ExperienceLasVegas.USATODAY.com. The site launches today with LasVegas.com providing the exclusive booking engine.

Experience Las Vegas offers guidance to anyone interested in travel to Las Vegas - from the veteran to those planning their first trip to those who dream about going. The site features "best of" recommendations based on traveler type such as Partier, Food Lover, Vegas Newbie and others, while covering attractions, hotels, casinos, restaurants, shopping, shows, celebrity comings and goings, deals and expert tips. USA TODAY has sourced the foremost experts in Las Vegas to share their insider knowledge and exclusive access. In USA TODAY trademark fashion, content is smart, user-friendly and accessible. Experience Las Vegas features trending topics and buzz, deals and videos that share insiders' views of all things Vegas, from where to stay, what to see and what to do.

"We are excited to launch the first of our Experience Travel themes. USA TODAY has always been a leader in providing travelers information, but now we also provide them the tools to plan, book and share their travel experience with others. We chose Las Vegas - where nearly 40 million people visit annually - as our first theme, and are proud to partner with LasVegas.com as an exclusive booking partner for Experience Las Vegas," said John Peters, president of the USA TODAY Travel Media Group.

"We are delighted to partner with USA TODAY and allow travelers worldwide another reason to visit fabulous Las Vegas," said Cathy Tull, senior vice president of marketing for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. "Las Vegas offers one-of-a-kind experiences, and this partnership will provide visitors a unique tool to help them plan their upcoming trip while staying informed with the latest news and information from the destination."

]]>http://www.lvcva.com///article/lasvegas.com-partners-with-usa-today-travel-media-group-to-launch-experience-vegas-as-first-in-travel-experience-series/896/
http://www.lvcva.com/article/las-vegas-slam-dunk-college-basketball/1002/
http://www.lvcva.com//press-room/press-releases/?show=rss
LVCVA Press Releasesen-usMAJOR INVESTMENTS CONTINUE REINVENTION OF LAS VEGASThu, 04 Apr 2013 00:00:00LAS VEGAS - Las Vegas is known for continually reinventing itself to provide the best possible experience for visitors. A series of new projects announced recently is injecting more than $5 billion into the destination over the next several years.

"This is an exciting time as the confidence in the Las Vegas brand continues to build with new projects and ongoing reinvestment," said Rossi Ralenkotter, president/CEO of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. "The billions of dollars being invested in Las Vegas for unique experiences and world-class facilities and amenities show why Las Vegas continues to be the premier leisure and business destination."

After a record-breaking year with nearly 40 million visitors in 2012, Las Vegas is adding more options and experiences for visitors that can only be found in the Entertainment Capital of the World - from the transformative new global business district to new and revamped resorts and entertainment venues.

In March, Malaysia-based Genting Group announced a multi-billion dollar Asian-themed resort complex on the Las Vegas Strip. Resorts World Las Vegas will include 3,500 rooms, luxury dining and shopping and a half million square feet of convention space on the 87-acre site. A replica of the Great Wall of China and more than 300,000 feet of pool and water features are also planned. It is expected to open in 2016.

MGM Resorts International and AEG recently announced plans for a 20,000-seat arena to be located west of the Las Vegas Strip between New York-New York and Monte Carlo resorts. The company is also rebranding THEhotel at Mandalay Bay into Delano Las Vegas, which will open in early 2014, and renovating several of its properties, including Mandalay Bay, MGM Grand, The Mirage and Bellagio. MGM Resorts alone will spend more than $300 million in exciting new capital investments to its Las Vegas resorts in 2013. When combined with its partners' investments, the company anticipates the investment to be more than $450 million.

Caesars Entertainment announced last month details of Gansevoort Las Vegas, a new boutique resort and casino to be located on the former site of Bill's Gamblin' Hall & Saloon. The $185 million renovation project is a collaboration with New York-based luxury hotel brand Gansevoort Hotel Group and nightlife promoter Victor Drai featuring the 65,000 square-foot indoor/outdoor Drai's Beach Club and Nightclub. The project is scheduled to open in early 2014.

Caesars is also continuing work on its more than $500 million dining, shopping and entertainment district The LINQ, which will feature the world's largest observation wheel - the 550-foot high Las Vegas High Roller. The company is also undergoing major projects at its other properties, including the opening of the Nobu Hotel at Caesars Palace and unveiling renovations at The Quad, formerly the Imperial Palace.

In February, the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority unveiled plans for the Las Vegas Global Business District, an overarching vision for the Las Vegas Convention Center and the surrounding area. The preliminary cost for the project is $2.5 billion and will be completed in phases. It will create an international business destination by incorporating major renovations of the Las Vegas Convention Center, leveraging the World Trade Center designation and developing transportation connectivity through a centralized hub. This will be the first major expansion of the 54-year-old Las Vegas Convention Center in more than a decade. The LVCVA plans to issue up to $150 million of commercial paper to fund phase one elements.

"The Global Business District is a transformative project that will launch Las Vegas ahead of its competition and solidify our standing as an international business center," Ralenkotter said.

In addition to these projects, several resorts are re-branding and refurbishing their properties to continue to deliver on the brand promise of the premier destination in the world. Some major resort projects include the rebranding and reopening of the Sahara as the SLS Las Vegas in 2014 and the rebranding and reopening of the Lady Luck as the Downtown Grand later this year. These projects join major renovations at The Venetian, Gold Coast Hotel and Casino, Golden Gate, Palms, The D Las Vegas, Riviera, The New Tropicana Las Vegas, Four Seasons and more.

In recent years, other investments have shown the confidence in the Las Vegas brand. The $2.4 billion Terminal 3 at McCarran International Airport, the $470 million The Smith Center for the Performing Arts, the $42 million Mob Museum, and the $3 million renovation and opening of the Neon Museum show that Las Vegas does not stand still.

LAS VEGAS - The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) set a record in 2012 by recycling 68 percent or 3,288 tons of materials at the Las Vegas Convention Center and Cashman Center. The amount of items recycled is roughly the equivalent of diverting 14.5 Statues of Liberty or 651 schools buses from landfills.

"We committed to a comprehensive recycling program in 2006, and we continue to improve our systems to recycle more and more items," said Taryle Spain, director of client services for the LVCVA, operators of the LVCC and Cashman Center. "We have made a commitment at both the convention center and Cashman Center to being environmentally-friendly facilities, and by working closely with our vendors, trade show partners and local charitable organizations, we're having great success."

The LVCVA partners with Evergreen Recycling, a subsidiary of Republic Services, to sort and recycle materials during and after trade shows in the building. Evergreen is able to recycle materials such as carpet and padding, metals, glass, cardboard, plastic and wood that is used during trade shows at the facility.

The 2012 rate is four percentage points higher than the 2011 recycle rate. Several adjustments helped the LVCVA to reach the new rate, including improved logistics and automation at Evergreen's recycle center and partnering with the local nonprofit Repurpose America to provide an additional option for repurposing a wide variety of materials back into the community through innovative ideas and practices. Repurpose America has used post show materials to create shading structures at local schools and provided items to the local artists for community projects, among many other sustainable and creative uses.

"Repurpose AMERICA is working with the LVCVA and their partners to lead the way towards zero waste," said Zach Delbex, CEO of Repurpose America. "Together, we are reinvesting in our community, reducing budgets, creating new jobs and new industries while protecting the environment."

In addition to the successful recycling program, the LVCVA also utilizes environmentally-friendly cleaning supplies, energy-efficient lighting, is an Energy Star Partner, participates in the Water Sense program and is a partner in the EPA's WasteWise Program.

The Las Vegas Convention Center is one of the busiest facilities in the country hosting 55 of the top 250 largest trade shows in North America, more than the next two competitors combined, according to Trade Show News Network.

LAS VEGAS - Las Vegas welcomed a record 39.7 million visitors in 2012, approximately a half-million more visitors than the previous high of 39.2 million set in 2007. The record visitation generated more than $40 billion in economic impact for the local economy last year.

The 2012 year-end statistics, released today by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA), point to continued recovery for Las Vegas tourism with increases in all of the key core indicators.

"The record visitation is a testament to the dedication and commitment of our resort partners and every employee who works in the industry," said Rossi Ralenkotter, president/CEO of the LVCVA. "Tourism is the economic leader for Southern Nevada and the entire state, so we are encouraged to see positive signs of continued growth for the industry. With more than $2 billion of reinvestment in the destination, Las Vegas is well positioned for continued growth in 2013 and on the threshold of hosting more than 40 million visitors."

Other year-end highlights:

Compared to 2011, visitor volume increased 2.1 percent in 2012 with approximately 800,000 more guests allowing the destination to reach 39.7 million annual visitors.

Gradual improvement in the meetings and convention industry with 4.9 million delegates attending a convention, trade show or meeting in 2012, reflecting a 1.6 percent increase over last year. This is the highest convention attendance in four years.

Las Vegas hosted 21,615 meetings, tradeshows or conventions in 2012, up 13.6 percent from the 2011 total of 19,029. The 2012 total is the highest number of meetings and conventions held in Las Vegas since 2008.

Average citywide occupancy was up 0.6 percentage points to 84.4 percent for 2012. Las Vegas' citywide occupancy is 23 percentage points higher than the national average of 61.4 percent. With industry-leading occupancy of 84.4 percent for its 150,481 rooms, Las Vegas fills more rooms per night on average than any destination in North America.

Another positive indicator for Southern Nevada's tourism industry is the addition of nearly 23,000 jobs in the resort-industry since the recessionary low in November 2009. Tourism supports 370,000 jobs, or 46 percent of all the local jobs.

Additional information regarding Las Vegas 2012 visitors will be available later this spring when the LVCVA releases its annual Visitor Profile Study, detailing visitor trends, attitudes, behaviors and spending habits while visiting the destination.

]]>http://www.lvcva.com///article/las-vegas-sets-record-for-visitation-in-2012-welcoming-nearly-40-million-visitors/886/
http://www.lvcva.com/article/las-vegas-slam-dunk-college-basketball/1002/
http://www.lvcva.com//press-room/press-releases/?show=rss
LVCVA Press Releasesen-usLas Vegas Celebrates Mexican Independence Day with World-Class Latin Performers and FestivitiesMon, 20 Aug 2012 00:00:00LAS VEGAS -Revelers looking for the best Mexican Independence Day celebrations this side of the Rio Grande need travel no further than Las Vegas for exciting El Grito! festivities. Thousands of visitors will indulge in world-class Mexican cuisine, dance to the rhythms of the hottest Latin music artists and enjoy unparalleled nightlife.

"Visitors to Las Vegas can celebrate and enjoy the best of Mexican Independence Day this year surrounded by the excitement that only Las Vegas provides," said Cathy Tull, Senior Vice President of Marketing for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. "Guests of all nationalities will appreciate the best of Mexican tradition, cuisine and entertainment the world has to offer. Las Vegas is a premiere international destination famous for entertainment and top-notch cultural celebrations."

A host of A-list talent performing on the Las Vegas Strip will welcome visitors during the week-long celebration:

Latin music superstar Luis Miguel will perform at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace, Sept. 13-15.

Legendary Flamenco guitarist Esteban performs at The Smith Center for the Performing Arts on Sept. 13.

Latin jazz virtuoso and salsa king Pancho Sanchez and his Latin Jazz Band perform Sept. 14-15.

World-famous Arturo Sandoval brings the Cuban-Caribbean sounds of his jazz trumpet to The Orleans Hotel and Casino on Sept. 15.

Flamenco guitarist and entertainer Charo will perform at South Point Hotel Casino and Spa on Sept. 15.

Grammy Award-winning Mexican Band Maná will perform their top hits at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on Sept. 16.

The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas will play host to various mariachi bands and folkloric dancers roaming throughout the resort during the holiday weekend.

The party will spill onto the street in Downtown Las Vegas on Sept. 15 with The Fiesta Las Vegas Latino Parade & Festival, Southern Nevada's largest Latino parade and festival. Mexican singer Graciela Beltrán will act as the official grand marshal for the parade which begins at 10 a.m. Festivities will continue until 10 p.m.

Authentic Mexican music will be on display at the Las Vegas International Mariachi Festival, a gathering of hundreds of the world's finest Mariachi performers who will showcase their traditional music at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino on Saturday, Sept. 15, at 8 p.m. Special guests include Shaila Durcal, Vargas de Tecalitlan, the ensemble Mariachi Sol de Mexico de Jose Hernandez and Mariachi Divas.

Other not-to-be-missed acts performing during the Mexican Independence Day weekend include GIGANT3S national tour featuring Marc Anthony, Chayanne and Marco A. Solis at the Mandalay Bay Events Center, Alejandro Fernández at the Mandalay Bay Events Center and Carlos Santana at the House of Blues.

In addition to entertainment, Las Vegas has truly redefined the culinary experience by offering world-class restaurants and more Master Sommeliers than any other destination in the world, and the most comprehensive collection of celebrity chefs. Dining continues to evolve throughout Las Vegas, and unique offerings give visitors a chance to experience supreme Latin cuisine:

Javier's Authentic Food de Mexico at Aria resort and Casino will open fall 2012, and will bring seafood, chicken and steak influenced by Mexico's regional specialties along with an envious collection of premium tequilas.

Tacos & Tequila (T&T) inside of Luxor Las Vegas hosts the mariachi brunch every Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. with traditional specialties including huevos rancheros, albondigas soup, T&T's signature chilaquiles all served to the sounds of live mariachi music. T&T is home to Executive chef Saul Ortiz, originally from Mexico City.

Hussong's Cantina at the Shoppes at Mandalay Place will create a special weekend menu to celebrate the holiday featuring caesar crispy chicken tacos with beer pairings from around Mexico.

Yolös at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino offers traditional Mexican favorites which are fused with a global flair of international cooking from Pacific Rim, South American, and Caribbean cuisine.

Signature nightlife events during the Mexican Independence Day weekend include:

Surrender Nightclub has lined up internationally renowned electronic dance music DJ's for the holiday weekend beginning on Thursday, Sept. 13, with a "Splash Dance," a night time pool party, with R3hab. On Friday, Sept. 14, Surrender Nightclub presents Tiesto followed by Diplo on Saturday, Sept. 15.

Crown Nightclub at The Rio hosts Latin Libido Night every Wednesday at 10 p.m. It includes live bands and the perfect opportunity to salsa.

South Padre at Texas Station hosts La Nueva Live Mix every Thursday featuring La Nueva's Oscar "El Coyote" Ruiz along with DJ Lee and DJ Paco mixing the top Latin hits.

The Railhead inside of Boulder Station hosts Latin Night every Friday with Noche Nortena featuring El Moreno Carrillo Y Su Banda Tierra Sagrada, delivering the best in regional Mexican music. The music flows, leading up to the show and between sets, with a DJ spinning the best Latin tunes.

Club Tequila at Fiesta Rancho plays current contemporary Latin music every Friday night with Mundo Vacio followed by music from El Moreno Carrillo Y Su Banda Tierra Sagrada on Saturdays. On Sundays it hosts La Kalle Live Mix with Noche Celestial de los Domingos.